Gary Neville has communicated his surprise over excluding Jordan Henderson from Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the 2024 Euro Championships.
As Southgate plans to lead a generally youthful team for certain remarkable rejections, Neville’s remarks feature worries about the midfield’s depth and leadership.
Neville Questions Henderson’s Omission From The England Squad
Gary Neville has transparently scrutinised the choice to leave out former Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson from the England squad for Euro 2024.
Regardless of not anticipating that Henderson should begin, Neville trusted his experience and capacity to control the game would make him an important resource.
Neville said on The Overlap,
“Why’s that happened? I didn’t expect that,
I didn’t think he would start at the Euros but he was a mainstay in the team at Qatar. I thought he would be in there because he’s a good player to have in the squad and can do a job.
I’m really stunned by that. They are really short in that midfield position. It does feel surprising to me. Looking at the personnel, Gareth Southgate is almost going to be forced to play a really attacking midfield. I thought he would go for that experienced player who can control things.”
emphasizing his surprise at Southgate’s choice.
Impact Of Henderson’s Departure From Liverpool
Henderson’s move away from Liverpool to Al-Ettifaq and afterwards to Ajax has not worked out as hoped.
His disappointing exhibition in Saudi Arabia and struggles in the Netherlands feel a little unsure about his current form.
If Henderson had stayed at Liverpool, even in a reduced role, it is logical he would have gotten a spot in the England squad, given his past contributions and leadership qualities.
Southgate’s Strategic Midfield Choices
With the exclusion of prepared midfielders like Henderson and Kalvin Phillips, Gareth Southgate faces the test of developing a balanced midfield.
The consideration of more youthful talents, for example, Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace and Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United proposes a shift towards a more dynamic and attacking midfield.
Neville’s concern is whether these less experienced players can deliver the same stability and control as their seasoned counterparts.
Balancing Experience And Youth In England’s Squad
England’s squad for Euro 2024 is set apart by a mix of youth and a couple of experienced figures.
While veterans like Jordan Pickford, Harry Maguire, and Harry Kane are supposed to provide leadership, the general absence of international experience in the squad is a potential risk.
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