How England's Euro 2024 Squad Could Change With Potential UEFA Expansion

England's national football team manager, Gareth Southgate, may soon find his selection dilemmas for Euro 2024 somewhat alleviated. UEFA is currently deliberating on whether to revert to 26-man squads for the tournament, a move that has reportedly garnered support from the majority of coaches at a recent Euro 2024 workshop. This consideration comes after teams had reverted to preparing 23-player squads following temporary expansions due to the coronavirus pandemic's impact. UEFA has announced it will make a final decision on this matter in the forthcoming weeks.

Expanded squad sizes previously enabled Southgate to include players like Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson in Euro 2020 and Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips in the 2022 World Cup, despite their fitness concerns. The potential return to a 26-man squad could benefit several key players facing fitness and form challenges.

Luke Shaw, a crucial player in England's recent tournament campaigns, has had a challenging season with Manchester United due to injuries, limiting him to just 15 appearances. Despite not playing for the national team since last June, Shaw's expected return next month could see him included in an expanded squad, given Southgate's high regard for him.

Reece James, Chelsea's captain, has also faced a difficult season with only nine appearances due to injuries. Despite the depth in right-back options for England, an expanded squad could offer James a chance to participate in his first international tournament since missing out on the World Cup in Qatar.

Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford are among those facing stiff competition for their places in the squad. Despite this, both players have shown signs of returning to form, which could secure their inclusion in an expanded selection.

Mason Mount, another of Southgate's favoured players, has faced injury setbacks that have prevented him from adding to his 36 caps since the World Cup quarter-final loss to France. Now with Manchester United, Mount is aiming to conclude a frustrating season on a positive note.

The striker position behind captain Harry Kane is also highly contested, with Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and Brentford's Ivan Toney vying for inclusion. An increased squad size could allow Southgate the flexibility to select an additional specialist striker.

The potential move to expand squad sizes for Euro 2024 reflects UEFA's adaptability and consideration for teams' needs post-pandemic. As the final decision looms, England's preparation for the tournament could see significant impacts, offering opportunities for players battling fitness and form issues to contribute to their national team's campaign.