19 January 2024 , 06:00
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Gareth Southgate knows who should get their bags packed ready for this summer’s Euros.
England are in a fortunate position with most places in the starting XI nailed down and competition is pretty fierce to even make the 23 man squad. The Three Lions will go to Germany as one of the tournament favourites because of the likes of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, John Stones and Jordan Pickford.
But while England’s big guns have got their places in the departure lounge, tournament year almost inevitably brings at least one surprise call-up. So, who has still got a chance of making the plane? Here is a look at who could gatecrash their way into England boss Southgate’s plans.
1. Curtis Jones
The Liverpool midfielder has been a bit stop start at Anfield in the last couple of seasons but looks in red-hot form right now. He has been a regular for England under-21s and what makes him catch the eye is his ability to drive forward from central midfield.
That was Kalvin Phillips not so long back but now Southgate has a dilemma as to who to play alongside Declan Rice as surely Jude Bellingham will be pushed further forward in midfield.
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There is a space opening up for Jones and the way he is playing, you have to think that he has a chance of making the March friendlies with Brazil and Belgium - and then really staking his claim for Germany this summer.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones (Getty Images)2. Anthony Gordon
The Newcastle winger has been in terrific form this season for the Toon Army and, with his pace and goal threat, he surely has to be a big prospect as a wide forward for England.
Sadly for Gordon, there is so much competition with Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Jarrod Bowen and maybe even Cole Palmer depending on where he is viewed. If he keeps impressing and delivering for Gordon then surely he is the next cab off the rank and can yet force his way into the squad.
3. James Ward-Prowse
The really puzzling thing here is that we know Gareth Southgate really rates the West Ham midfielder… and yet he has failed to make the cut for the last two major tournaments.
Curtis Jones might be ahead of him in the queue but if Jordan Henderson does not get the move he needs to maintain his form and performances, maybe there is still a place for JWP.
His move to West Ham has been good for him. Three Premier League goals, six assists and in excellent form for a team which has been getting good results. Maybe JWP might make it third time lucky.
James Ward-Prowse continues to shine with West Ham (Getty Images)4. Rico Lewis
The Manchester City youngster's versatility could be key here… he played for England in North Macedonia as an inverted left back.
He has often stepped into midfield for City, can play as a full back, is very confident on the ball and is developing all of the time. With Gareth Southgate having to balance his squad, squeeze players into a 23 man party, he might have to take a chance.
And Lewis being able to fill different positions - including the problem left back slot with Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell both having recent injury issues - will go hugely in his favour.
5. Ivan Toney
Last but definitely not least. The Brentford striker is up against Callum Wilson and Ollie Watkins for a place in the squad to effectively be back-up to Harry Kane.
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The issue for Toney will be how quickly and effectively he comes back in the second half of the season after his eight month betting ban. He offers something different in terms of presence, he is a powerful striker and he fills you with confidence when it comes to finishing chances. He is also brimming with confidence from the penalty spot.
Wilson was an effective substitute in the last World Cup but does have his injury issues. Watkins got a chance in England’s last game with North Macedonia and did not really grasp it. There’s an opening for Toney - and he’s clearly got his sights on it.