GARETH SOUTHGATE’S first England squad since last November will be announced on Tuesday – sparking a frenzy of interest over the next generation of stars.
Manchester City’s future playmaker-in-chief Phil Foden and Aston Villa skipper Jack Grealish are uncapped midfielders battling to make the squad for next month’s UEFA Nations League games in Iceland and Denmark.
Former England U21 keeper Dean Henderson is back at Man Utd after shining on loan for Sheffield United but has been linked with ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Man Utd striker Mason Greenwood hit 17 goals in all competitions during an astonishing breakthrough seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
But apart from those, SunSport has identified six other players who have shot into the Three Lions’ reckoning in the longer term for the delayed Euros next summer.
Here’s our guide to the hopeful half-dozen – including a real wildcard from the Championship.
MASON GREENWOOD (18), Man Utd
If he carries on where he left off, it would almost be a surprise if he DIDN’T make the squad for next year’s Euros.
Greenwood’s main challenge is competition for places up front — and if Jadon Sancho moves to Old Trafford, his first-team chances will reduce.
Nothing has stopped him so far, though.
DEAN HENDERSON (23), Man Utd
Like Greenwood, much will depend on how often he plays for United — or someone else — this term.
Won an England call-up because of injuries last November.
His form on loan at Sheffield United was good enough to be at least England’s No 3 or arguably No 2 behind Burnley’s Nick Pope.
And should be ahead of Everton’s Jordan Pickford.
BUKAYO SAKA (18), Arsenal
Pacy, versatile Arsenal starlet Bukayo Saka celebrated FA Cup final glory over ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Saka’s England chances appear better as a left- back than as a winger.
So much will depend on where manager Mikel Arteta uses him at Arsenal.
Three Lions chief Gareth Southgate will have noted how mature he was during tough times for the Gunners last season.
But Saka could play for Nigeria, where his parents are from.
BEN WHITE (22), Brighton
Ben White was outstanding on loan as Leeds won promotion, meaning parent club Brighton are now fighting off top clubs to keep himCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The summer’s most in-demand English defender is also the best player most people have never seen play.
Southgate will want to watch how he takes to top-flight football for the Seagulls (or one of his suitors) before giving him an opportunity.
England undeniably need more competition at centre-back and he has also impressed in midfield.
EBERECHI EZE (22), QPR
QPR’s exciting Eberechi Eze has been linked with several Premier League clubs, including Fulham, Spurs and LeedsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
A wildcard but if a move to the Premier League happens in this window, then who knows?
Like Greenwood, the attacking midfielder has a lot of established stars standing in his way, and like Saka, he could still choose to play for Nigeria at senior level.
But QPR director of football Les Ferdinand is not alone in rating him a future England player.
KALVIN PHILLIPS (24), Leeds
Kalvin Phillips was the driving force behind Leeds winning the ChampionshipCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The midfielder’s form in Leeds’ promotion campaign led to him being touted for an England cap last season.
If he can produce more of the same in the Premier League, he will pose a threat to players like Declan Rice, Harry Winks and even Jordan Henderson.
His ability to play centre-back as well won’t hurt him.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
