Luke Shaw’s long-awaited return from a calf injury could come in England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final clash with Switzerland, reports have revealed.
England manager Gareth Southgate had suggested Shaw could be fit to play a part in the Three Lions’ opening fixture of the summer, but the Manchester United left-back has instead been kept on the bench amid concerns over his readiness for his first appearance since February.
According to The Times, however, England officials are now satisfied that Shaw is able to make his return on Saturday, with Southgate now needing to make a decision over how to re-introduce the left-back.
Whether Shaw starts the Switzerland game or comes off the bench remains to be seen, but an expected change in formation from the England boss could open the door for an immediate return to the starting lineup.
Southgate has been training with a three-at-the-back setup, which could open the door for Shaw to start as a wing-back or as a central centre-back – a role he has filled for United in the past.
Kieran Trippier, who himself has been battling injury, is the obvious candidate to continue starting on the left of Southgate’s defence, while Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka could get the nod after his surprise tactical switch late on in the last-16 victory over Slovakia last time out.
Southgate’s plan had been to ease Shaw back into action but the manager is under pressure to justify his decision to include the left-back in his squad this summer – not least because of his refusal to call-up another left-back.
Marc Guehi’s suspension opens up a vacancy at the back which Southgate is expected to fill with Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, who should join John Stones and Kyle Walker in a back three.
Further forward, Jude Bellingham is expected to be free to start once again. UEFA have been investigating a gesture he made in the aftermath of his goal against Slovakia, but the belief is that he will not receive a suspension.
