As Euro 2024 approaches, England manager Gareth Southgate has some tough decisions ahead of him.
While the core of the squad may seem set, there could still be a few surprises when the final team is announced.
The England to win Euro 2024 odds are firmly in their favour, so let’s explore four players who are not obvious picks but could make a case for inclusion based on their recent performances at club level.
Jack Butland
Once a regular feature in the England setup, Jack Butland hasn’t donned the Three Lions jersey since 2019.
Now plying his trade at Rangers, Butland has found a new lease of life in Scotland, showcasing performances that might just earn him a recall.
With Gareth Southgate recently seen at an Old Firm derby, it’s clear that Butland is back on the England radar.
The goalkeeper spot is highly competitive, with Jordan Pickford the established number one. However, Butland’s current form might edge him ahead of Aaron Ramsdale, Nick Pope, and Dean Henderson as a viable option for the backup role.
Rico Lewis
At just 19, Rico Lewis has made a significant impact at Manchester City, a team known for its depth and star power.
His versatility and solid performances have caught Southgate’s eye, earning Lewis his first senior cap against North Macedonia last November.
With Reece James battling fitness issues and Ben White making himself unavailable for the recent friendlies in March, Lewis’s chances look promising.
His recent inclusion on the bench against Belgium suggests that Southgate is seriously considering him as a viable option for the right-back position.
Mason Mount
Mason Mount was pivotal during England’s run to the Euro 2021 final and was a regular feature in subsequent international fixtures.
However, post-2022 World Cup, Mount has found calls from Southgate hard to come by.
His high-profile move from Chelsea to Manchester United promised much but, so far, delivered little as he has been hampered by injuries.
Despite this, Mount’s ability to change games and his experience at international level should not be underestimated.
With competition fierce in the midfield, Mount is a long shot at 12/1 odds, but his talent and wealth of experience could sway Southgate should he return to form at the right time.
Eric Dier
Eric Dier, another player with international experience in abundance, has been off the England scene for over a year.
However, a January transfer to Bayern Munich has revitalised his career, where he has quickly become a key player in their defence.
Playing in the Bundesliga and the Champions League has kept Dier in the shop window, and his performances in Germany might just be enough to earn a recall.
England’s centre-back options are robust, but Dier’s international experience and form at one of Europe’s top clubs could make him an attractive option for Southgate, especially with his ability to also play in midfield.
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As Euro 2024 draws closer, these four players represent potential wild cards in England’s squad, with the potential to help them in the Euro 2024 betting.
Their current trajectories could make them invaluable assets in Germany, should Southgate decide to bring in a mix of experience and youth to navigate the challenges of a European Championship.
