As England prepare to face Malta and North Macedonia in their final Euro 2024 qualifiers, Gareth Southgate’s squad faces intriguing tactical dilemmas and opportunities for emerging stars. While qualification is secured, these matches hold significance for squad dynamics ahead of next summer’s tournament. Here’s our Mcw breakdown of the key narratives unfolding.
Why These Matches Matter More Than You Think
England may have already booked their ticket to Germany, but don’t expect Southgate to treat these as meaningless friendlies. The Three Lions still have crucial seeding considerations at stake.
Current UEFA coefficients show England sitting fourth in the overall qualification rankings – comfortably within the top five required for Pot 1 status. However, with Portugal and France breathing down their necks, maximum points from these fixtures would cement their position as group winners and top seeds.
As Mcw analyst Mark Thompson observes: “Southgate has always prioritized momentum. Strong performances here set the tone for tournament preparations and could mean avoiding European heavyweights in the group stage.”
England’s Persistent Left-Side Conundrum
England’s defensive options look thin on the left with Shaw and Chilwell sidelined
The eternal problem position for England resurfaces yet again. With Luke Shaw still recovering from muscle issues and Ben Chilwell battling hamstring troubles, Southgate faces familiar selection headaches.
Kieran Trippier’s versatility makes him the likely stand-in, but as former England defender Gary Stevens told Mcw: “It’s concerning that after years of searching, we’re still relying on a right-footer to cover left-back. This exposes our lack of depth in specialized positions.”
Levi Colwill’s injury compounds the issue, leaving Southgate with limited options. These matches will test whether England’s makeshift solutions can hold up against tournament-level opposition.
Attacking Dilemmas: Rashford, Grealish or Sterling?
Neither Rashford nor Grealish have hit last season’s heights
The left-wing position presents another selection puzzle. Both Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish arrive at St. George’s Park searching for form, with just two goals and three assists between them this campaign.
Raheem Sterling’s Chelsea resurgence (7 goal contributions in 14 games) makes his continued exclusion puzzling. As Mcw contributor Sarah Johnson notes: “Sterling’s directness and experience could be invaluable in Germany. These matches offer the perfect chance to reintegrate him.”
Defensive Spotlight on Guehi’s Development
Guehi has impressed when given opportunities for England
With John Stones and Lewis Dunk injured, Marc Guehi gets another chance to stake his claim. The Crystal Palace defender has shown composure beyond his 23 years, ranking among Premier League leaders in clearances.
“Guehi’s performances against Scotland were particularly impressive,” observes Mcw scout David Wilson. “His ability to play out from the back fits Southgate’s system perfectly. These games could cement his place as first-choice backup.”
Midfield Experiments: Alexander-Arnold’s Role
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transition to midfield continues to fascinate. After dazzling performances in June’s reverse fixtures (1 goal, 1 assist), the Liverpool playmaker could get another chance to showcase his creative talents centrally.
Southgate’s recent comments suggest he views Alexander-Arnold primarily as a midfielder now. Against weaker opposition, this provides the ideal platform to refine this tactical experiment before the Euros.
Palmer’s Chance to Shine in Bellingham’s Absence
With Jude Bellingham rested and James Maddison injured, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer presents an exciting wildcard option. The 21-year-old has thrived under pressure since his move from Manchester City, displaying maturity beyond his years.
“Palmer’s technical quality and decision-making could make him the perfect Bellingham deputy,” suggests Mcw youth development expert Emma Carter. “These low-pressure games offer the perfect audition.”
Gallagher’s Redemption Arc
Conor Gallagher’s career trajectory continues upward. From West Ham target to Chelsea captaincy candidate and now England regular, the energetic midfielder has silenced doubters through relentless work ethic.
As Gallagher himself acknowledged: “Training alongside £100m players shows where I’m at.” These matches offer another chance to prove he belongs at international level.
Mcw Verdict: More Than Just Dead Rubbers
While the results may not affect qualification, these fixtures carry significant weight for England’s Euro 2024 preparations. From squad hierarchy decisions to tactical experiments, Southgate will glean valuable insights from how his players perform.
The Mcw team will be watching closely to see which players seize their opportunities and stake claims for Germany. With several positions still up for grabs, these matches could prove pivotal in shaping England’s tournament destiny.
