By Danny Murphy

Gareth Southgate stands by his player selections for the Euros, despite England’s defeat to Iceland on Friday. Southgate’s squad includes several young, in-form players, like Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, and Cole Palmer, rather than more established names like Jack Grealish, James Maddison, and Marcus Rashford. While the loss at Wembley was disappointing, pre-tournament friendlies are often lacking in intensity, and Southgate’s choices reflect his desire for impact players who can change the game.

Eze, with eight goals this season, offers dribbling skills, pace, and confidence, while Ivan Toney is a penalty expert and a poacher in front of goal. Southgate’s squad may lack experience in certain areas, but it still includes seasoned leaders like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice, as well as Jude Bellingham, who has an impressive track record in big games despite his young age. The Iceland defeat could even serve as a reality check, tempering expectations and reminding fans that other nations, like France and Portugal, also boast strong squads.

England’s loss to Iceland won’t sway opinions on Southgate’s squad selections for the Euros.

Eberechi Eze impressed in recent games and is a valuable asset to the England squad.

Jack Grealish has been excluded from the squad due to his lack of goals in 2024.

England’s performance in the friendly against Iceland was underwhelming, but it’s important to remember that these games often lack the intensity of competitive matches. When it comes to making an impact in the latter stages of the Euros, players like Eze and Toney could be valuable substitutes. While Grealish is a talented player, his lack of goals in 2024 and the impressive form of other players make his exclusion understandable.

Southgate’s squad may be light on experience in certain areas, but it still includes seasoned leaders. Harry Kane, for example, provides a wealth of experience at the top end of the pitch, and players like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka can step up and take on more prominent leadership roles. Jude Bellingham, despite his young age, has already played in numerous high-pressure games, showcasing his maturity and talent.

Jude Bellingham’s experience in high-pressure games is an asset to the England squad.

While England has a talented squad, it’s important to maintain realistic expectations. Nations like France and Portugal have strong squads, and even the Netherlands have impressive defensive options. England is a contender, but they are not the outright favorite. The Iceland defeat may serve as a reminder of the challenges ahead and the need to approach the tournament with a sense of humility and determination.