- Philip Morrissey
- Sat, Nov 12 2022
Gareth Southgate set out his 26-man squad to travel to Qatar in a few days. Despite reaching the semi-finals four years ago, and the final of the European Championships last year, there is significant pressure on the former Middlesborough coach.
Much of the criticism towards him is due to a perceived lack of flexibility and conservative nature despite a wealth of attacking players at his disposal. His faith in certain players has also drawn ire. And it is a squad that does not divert these ideas.
In defence, the likes of Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Trent Alexander-Arnold are still selected regardless of struggles with club form. Kyle Walker has only recently returned to fitness but is still picked for his versatility. Shaw is the only recognised left-back selected that cause many to question the lack of a back-up.
The absence of Fikayo Tomori and Chris Smalling was questioned by many after their good form in Serie A. Lewis Dunk similarly has been solid for Newcastle but overlooked.
In midfield, the main concerns arose over the selection of Kalvin Phillips and Conor Gallagher. Both have barely featured for Manchester City and Chelsea respectively yet were picked over the likes of James Ward Prowse.
His insistence in selecting two defensive minded players might have to be rejigged against the lesser sides.
Up front, the main question remains about the fitness of Harry Kane and who best to select alongside him.
The main dilemma was between Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Newcastle’s Callum Wilson. The latter’s return to fitness, and scoring, timed well to get recalled. Roma’s Tammy Abraham poor form for Roma going against him.
England squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Nick Pope (Newcastle), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal)
Defenders: Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), Eric Dier (Tottenham), John Stones (Manchester City), Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), Conor Coady (Everton), Ben White (Arsenal), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Declan Rice (West Ham), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City)
Forwards: James Maddison (Leicester), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Tottenham), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Chelsea), Callum Wilson (Newcastle), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
