In a recent announcement, England manager Gareth Southgate unveiled the squad for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. The roster features a blend of experienced players and newcomers, with some notable inclusions and exclusions sparking discussion among football enthusiasts.
New Faces and Familiar Names Gear Up for Friendlies:
Anthony Gordon and Jarrad Branthwaite, two promising talents, received their maiden call-ups to the national team. Gordon, a 23-year-old forward, has been in scintillating form for Newcastle United, netting 10 goals across various competitions this season. Meanwhile, Branthwaite, aged 21, has caught the eye with his impressive performances in defense for struggling Everton.
The inclusion of Brentford striker Ivan Toney marks his return to the squad after serving an eight-month ban for breaching FA betting rules. Toney's prowess upfront adds depth to England's attacking options, providing Southgate with additional firepower. Joining the ranks is uncapped Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, aged 26, who has consistently delivered solid displays at the back. Konsa's reliability in defense has earned him a well-deserved opportunity to showcase his talent on the international stage.
One of the notable names making a comeback is defender Joe Gomez, who last featured for England in 2020. Gomez's versatility across multiple defensive positions, coupled with his impressive performances for Liverpool this season, caught Southgate's attention and secured him a spot in the squad.
However, there were some surprises and omissions in the selection process. Arsenal's in-form defender Ben White opted to make himself unavailable for selection, a decision communicated to Southgate by Arsenal's sporting director, Edu. White's absence leaves a void in the defensive lineup, highlighting the complexities of squad selection. Another talking point was the exclusion of midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who has struggled for form since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester City. Despite being a regular presence in previous squads, Phillips' recent performances did not meet the standards expected at the international level, leading to his omission from the current roster.
Southgate emphasized the importance of experience and winning mentality in his squad, citing the inclusion of seasoned campaigner Jordan Henderson. The Ajax midfielder, formerly of Liverpool, brings a wealth of experience and leadership qualities to the team, making him a valuable asset despite his advancing age.
The announcement also shed light on the managerial perspective behind the selections. Southgate expressed his surprise at Branthwaite's rapid rise, acknowledging the defender's commendable performances for Everton this season. Branthwaite's journey from being a backup player for the under-21s to establishing himself in the Premier League reflects his dedication and talent, earning him a place in the national team setup.
Regarding Gomez, Southgate praised the defender's versatility and positive attitude, highlighting his contributions to Liverpool's campaign across various positions. Gomez's adaptability and consistency make him a valuable addition to the squad, offering defensive stability and tactical flexibility.
Phillips' omission sparked debates among pundits and fans alike, with many questioning his recent form and impact on the field. Southgate's decision to exclude Phillips underscores the high standards expected of players representing England, with performance being a crucial factor in squad selection.
In conclusion, England's squad announcement for the upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium showcases a mix of established stars and rising talents. The inclusion of Gordon, Branthwaite, and Toney reflects Southgate's willingness to reward performances and provide opportunities for deserving individuals. As the team prepares for Euro 2024, the friendlies serve as a platform for players to stake their claim and solidify their positions in the national setup. With a blend of youth and experience, England aims to make a statement on the international stage, driven by a collective desire for success and silverware.
FAQs:
What time is the England squad announced?
The South Americans visit Wembley on Saturday 23 March before Belgium travel to London three days later. Gareth Southgate's England were impressive winners over Italy (John Walton/PA). Gareth Southgate will name his squad for the two friendlies at 2pm GMT on Thursday 14 March.
Who is number 1 in England squad?
Jordan Pickford claims the No 1 jersey while the captain, Harry Kane, again wears No 9
Where can I watch England squad announcement?
While the squad announcement, will simply be a social media post, the FA will likely stream Southgate's press conference, as will broadcasters such as Sky Sports.
Why does Harry Kane wear number 10?
Kane's squad number was changed from 18 to 10, previously worn by Emmanuel Adebayor. In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, he said that he changed the number "to become a club legend".
Has Beckham won a World Cup?
No, this soccer star has never actually won a World Cup. However, his Manchester United bio notes that he is the only England player to have scored a goal in three different World Cups so, go David! For what it's worth, England last won a World Cup game in 1966, when they beat Germany.
When did England win a World Cup?
The 1966 FIFA World Cup was the eighth FIFA World Cup, a quadrennial football tournament for men's senior national teams. It was played in England from 11 to 30 July 1966. England defeated West Germany 4–2 in the final to win their first ever World Cup title.
Why does UK have 4 football teams?
The countries of the U.K. have separate soccer teams because international soccer began as a game played between the countries of Britain. While other countries would probably like for Britain to be forced to field a single team, enacting such a major reform would be incredibly difficult.
