England Euro 2024 squad: Who makes the cut and who misses out

As England gear up for Euro 2024, they find themselves among the favourites, aiming to break a trophy drought since their World Cup victory nearly 60 years ago.

The Three Lions are set to face Slovenia, Denmark, and Serbia in Group C as they embark on their quest for European glory this summer. Fans are already excited ahead of the tournament with many buying sold-out Euro 2024 tickets months in advance.

With just two friendlies remaining before the tournament kicks off on June 14, players have limited opportunities to impress the manager and secure a spot in the final 23-man squad.

England are set for high-profile friendlies against Brazil and Belgium in March, adding to the excitement and anticipation ahead of Euro 2024.

The intense competition for squad places emphasizes the significance of players showcasing their form in the Premier League and various European competitions in the upcoming months, as manager decisions loom on finalizing the roster for the prestigious tournament.

Here’s a list of who makes the cut and who misses out on the England 2024 Euro squad:

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, Nick Pope

Jordan Pickford has been a consistent performer for England, establishing himself as Southgate’s undisputed number-one goalkeeper. His assured performances make him the clear favourite for the starting spot in the upcoming Euro 2024. Despite some sporadic moments of unpredictability, Pickford’s overall reliability and experience give him a stronghold on the position.

Aaron Ramsdale is likely to be his deputy, showcasing resilience despite losing his starting place at Arsenal. The third goalkeeping spot is a contested position, with Nick Pope vying for inclusion due to his seasoned experience with the England squad. However, Sam Johnstone emerges as a dark horse in this race, his standout performances at Crystal Palace bringing a valuable alternative to the goalkeeping roster.

The competition intensifies as Pope’s traditional style contrasts with Johnstone’s impressive agility and noteworthy form, providing Southgate with strategic choices based on the team’s needs during the Euro 2024 campaign.

Outfield players from defence to attack include:

Harry Kane

Harry Kane, England’s all-time leading goalscorer, is set to lead the forward line in the upcoming Euro 2024. The former Tottenham Hotspur striker aims to increase his tally of 12 goals for the Three Lions in major tournaments.

With an impressive start to his Bayern Munich career, including record-breaking achievements, Kane brings valuable experience of scoring goals in Germany.

As England’s captain, he remains a talisman on the pitch, contributing both leadership and goals to the team. Kane’s successful adaptation to Bayern Munich, coupled with the benefits of the Bundesliga’s winter break, positions him as a key asset for Southgate in the Euros.

Jude Bellingham 

Jude Bellingham has rapidly become one of England’s indispensable players, showcasing exceptional performances for both his national team and his new club, Real Madrid. His contributions include goals and assists, often initiated by dynamic runs from midfield. Southgate envisions Bellingham as an effective No 10 supporting Kane, potentially establishing a prolific partnership between England’s current captain and his anticipated successor. Bellingham’s outstanding form at Real Madrid solidifies his status as one of the premier football talents globally, presenting England with a golden opportunity in the upcoming UEFA Euro 2024 if he maintains his stellar performance level.

Declan Rice 

Arsenal’s marquee signing for a record-breaking £105 million, has seamlessly integrated into Mikel Arteta’s squad. His pivotal role in England’s midfield involves thwarting top-class attacking talents across the continent. Since joining Arsenal, Rice has made a promising start, elevating his significance on the international stage. Over the past few years, his importance to England’s playing style has exponentially increased, making him a crucial figure for the national team.

Kyle Walker 

Experience, rapid recovery pace, and versatility on the right of a back three establish Manchester City’s defender as a key component in Southgate’s plans. Since Southgate assumed charge in 2016, Walker ranks third in appearances for England, with only Kane and Harry Maguire having more than his 61 caps. His continued significance for both club and country, coupled with tactical flexibility, underscores Walker’s pivotal role in England’s squad.

Harry Maguire 

Despite scrutiny due to limited playing time at Manchester United, Harry Maguire remains a cornerstone in Southgate’s plans. Receiving a vote of confidence with a start against Italy in Euro 2024 qualifying, Maguire’s resurgence at Manchester United solidifies his standing for the Three Lions. Despite challenges in club form, Southgate values Maguire as a trusted and integral part of the squad.

Trent Alexander-Arnold 

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transition into midfield has increased his involvement for England. The Liverpool vice-captain, renowned for creativity and set-piece delivery, could serve as a match-winner. While Southgate has hesitated to fully trust him at right-back due to defensive concerns, Alexander-Arnold’s successful midfield role in recent games positions him favourably for inclusion in the Euro 2024 squad, especially in that position.

Kieran Trippier 

Trippier, once a certainty for the squad due to experience, versatility, and set-piece delivery, faces uncertainty due to wavering form at Newcastle this season. Competition for places in his position adds to doubts about his inclusion in Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024. But just like Maguire, club form may not equate to form for country as Trippier is still a pivotal asset for Southgate.

Lewis Dunk 

The 32-year-old waited five years for his second international cap but has impressed with his aerial dominance and ball-playing skills, honed under Roberto De Zerbi. These attributes make him valuable in the uncertain centre-half position for England.

Luke Shaw 

Shaw is arguably England’s first-choice left-back and notably scored the opening goal in the Euro 2020 final. Currently recovering from injury, the Manchester United player aims for a healthy return to bolster England’s defensive strength in the upcoming months.

Bukayo Saka 

The 22-year-old has faced challenges this season, much like his club’s forwards. Nonetheless, with 11 goals in 32 appearances, he remains a key player for England, showcasing versatility by contributing on both flanks.

Jack Grealish 

The Manchester City winger has become a regular squad member for Southgate, yet the manager may decide if he’s an integral part of the starting XI or a game-changing substitute. Guardiola’s utilization of Grealish in the City lineup before the tournament may influence his role for England.

Marcus Rashford 

As the third-highest goalscorer in the Southgate era, Rashford’s pace and direct runs from the left wing complement Kane’s play. While his form at the club level will likely secure his spot, in-form England stars could increase the pressure on Rashford to deliver sooner.

Jordan Henderson

Henderson’s move to Ajax, cutting short his controversial stint at Al-Ettifaq, is a significant boost to his chances of playing in Germany. Southgate had insisted his Saudi Pro League involvement wouldn’t hinder selection, but the Eredivisie move makes it easier. Despite recent boos from fans, Southgate values Henderson’s professionalism, experience, and leadership in the youthful squad.

Levi Colwill 

Colwill has been an integral part of Mauricio Pochettino’s squad, showing versatility in both the centre-back role and left-back. His proficiency on the ball along with his combativeness in defence has caught the eye of Gareth Southgate who invited him for the last international break. If he keeps up his performances until the end of the season, then he is surely on the track of making The Three Lions squad.

Conor Gallagher 

The 23-year-old is impressively making a strong case for inclusion in England’s summer squad. Valued by the manager, his bright performances for England and consistent starts at Chelsea this season enhance his chances for Euro 2024.

Phil Foden 

Foden has become a crucial part of Pep Guardiola’s City this season, contributing significantly to the team’s attack. He possesses unique dribbling ability, a deft first touch, a keen eye for goal and an ability to create while drifting into midfield.

Though not guaranteed in the starting XI, Foden is assured a spot in the squad.

Ollie Watkins

Watkins is poised to be Kane’s backup at the Euros, impressing under Unai Emery at Aston Villa with a steady flow of goals and assists. The 28-year-old is continuing his form from last season, scoring 9 goals in the Premier League and 10 assists. His 19-goal contributions in the League are only bettered by Mohammed Salah and Erling Haaland.

Worthy shouts 

Cole Palmer 

Emerging as a pivotal figure under Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea, Cole Palmer is catching Southgate’s eye with his exceptional touch, creativity, and goal-scoring instincts. With two caps already, the young talent is set to receive more opportunities to showcase his abilities in March’s friendlies. The 21-year-old is proving to be a revelation this season, with 18 goal contributions across all competitions this season.

John Stones

Stones unquestionably stands out as England’s top choice in the heart of the defence, and his place in the squad is assured when fit. However, Southgate faces concerns about Stones’ fitness, as the 69-time capped star has been hampered by various injuries throughout the current season.

Hence, the 19-year-old will need to build up his match fitness upon his return by consistently featuring in matches. It is unlikely how long he will remain out and what the situation of his current form is, so Southgate might opt not to risk it.

Kalvin Phillips

Phillips, a key figure in England’s journey to the Euro 2020 final nearly three years ago, has encountered limited playing time since joining Manchester City in the summer of 2022. Despite maintaining a consistent spot in the England squad, the former Leeds player might benefit from a loan move to secure his position in Germany, particularly considering the increased depth in England’s holding midfield role.

Raheem Sterling

Enduring an England hiatus since the 2022 World Cup, Raheem Sterling’s dip in form last season posed a challenge for his national team prospects. While Southgate acknowledged Sterling’s chances, his absence from recent camps and competition from Rashford and Grealish on the left side in Southgate’s favoured setup raises uncertainties despite glimpses of improved form this season.

Likely missing out 

Dominic Solanke 

Thriving in his career-best season, Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke, once heralded in Chelsea’s academy, emerges as a Euro 2024 contender. His uncapped status may change in March’s fixtures, offering Southgate a closer look. Solanke’s remarkable goal-scoring form brings a welcomed selection challenge, yet sustained performance is crucial for his aspirations. Despite scoring 12 Premier League goals, he is unlikely to usurp Harry Kane or Ollie Watkins in the pecking order.

Reece James

Regarded as one of the world’s best when injury-free, Reece James faces concerns about reliability due to recurrent hamstring issues, marking his seventh in three years. Southgate, wary of a smaller 23-player squad, requires fitness assurances before granting a tournament spot. James contends with strong competition from Walker, Trippier, and Alexander-Arnold for inclusion.

Marc Guehi 

Highly esteemed by England’s coaching staff, 23-year-old Palace defender Guehi emerges as a potential future cornerstone of the national team’s back line. With the center-back position up for grabs at Euro 2024, Guehi stands a genuine chance, particularly given recent starts in qualifying matches.

However, with Lewis Dunk, Harry Maguire, Levi Colwill and potentially Kyle Walker in the centre-back role, playing time might be hard to come by and might be dropped from the 23-man list.

Jarrod Bowen

Bowen is enjoying a stellar season with West Ham, displaying vibrant attacking prowess in his five England caps so far. However, he encounters robust competition in the winger positions, contending with players like Saka, Grealish, and Foden.