John Stones has missed England’s training session due to illness, just days before the Three Lions’ Euro 2024 opening match against Serbia. Gareth Southgate now faces a selection dilemma, exacerbated by the recent injury-related exclusion of Harry Maguire from the squad.
Embed from Getty ImagesDespite all 26 players participating in the initial training session on Tuesday after arriving at their camp in Germany, Stones’ absence could force Southgate to make significant changes to his lineup. The Manchester City defender had already been a concern after being substituted during England’s final warm-up game against Iceland due to injury, although it seems he did not exacerbate the knock.
Stones, 30, who has earned 72 caps and scored three goals for England, is a crucial part of Southgate’s defensive strategy. Should he be unable to recover in time for Sunday’s match, Southgate has several alternatives to consider.
Marc Guehi is expected to step in for the injured Maguire, while natural center-backs Lewis Dunk, Ezri Konsa, and Joe Gomez are also available. However, each option presents its own challenges. Dunk has previously struggled under the pressure of playing for the national team, Konsa has been utilized more as a right-back by Southgate, and Gomez has mostly played as a full-back for Liverpool this season.
Embed from Getty ImagesAnother potential solution for Southgate could involve shifting Declan Rice, typically a central midfielder, into a center-back role. Additionally, Southgate might opt for a three-man defense, with Kyle Walker playing as a right-sided center-back alongside Guehi and another defender.
This tactical adjustment could influence other positions as well. Reports earlier this week suggested Trent Alexander-Arnold was set to start in midfield, but the potential absence of Stones might prompt Southgate to reconsider his formation and player roles.
As the countdown to England’s Euro 2024 opener continues, the team and fans alike will be hoping for a swift recovery for Stones, ensuring that the Three Lions can field their strongest lineup against Serbia.
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