GARETH SOUTHGATE is set to unleash Jack Grealish for England’s Euro 2020 quarter-final showdown with Ukraine.
After starting the final group stage game – a 2-0 win over Czech Republic – the Aston Villa captain returned to the bench for the last 16 victory against Germany.
Once again, Grealish looked bright with Three Lions fans itching to see him back in the starting XI.
And they may just get their wish with Southgate get to send out a new-look midfield with suspensions now a very real possibility for England.
Four home heroes currently have a yellow card to their name, with one more meaning a one-match ban and missing the semi-final – if England make it.
Phil Foden was booked in the group stage win over Croatia, while Harry Maguire, Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice were all shown yellow against Germany.
The good news for England is the slate is wiped clean after the quarter-finals meaning Southgate will have a fully-available squad for the semis and final, barring any red cards.
Southgate will now look to balance a strong XI with not wanting to lose any players for the semi-finals.
England played a 3-4-3 for the 2-0 win over Germany in a bid to keep Joshua Kimmich and Robin Gosens from wreaking havoc.
But Southgate is set to return to a four-man defence for the Ukraine game, with Kyle Walker, John Stones and Luke Shaw keeping their places.
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Maguire is likely to start but will have to be careful, with the boss considering bringing Tyrone Mings – who started against Croatia and Scotland – back into the fold.
In midfield, Phillips and Rice could well be rested after a gruelling tournament so far – and due to having a yellow card to their names.
Jordan Henderson and Mason Mount are both strong options to start against Ukraine, with Grealish returning in the No10 role he took on against the Czechs.
Raheem Sterling – now among the favourites for Euro 2020 Player of the Tournament – will surely keep his spot on the left-wing, with Foden tipped to return on the right wing.
Should Southgate be fearful of the Manchester City star picking up a card, Bukayo Saka could be given another chance on the flank.
Harry Kane – fresh from his first goal of the tournament against Germany – will continue to lead the line.
England take on Ukraine at 8pm on Saturday July 3 in Rome.
Should they emerge victorious, the Three Lions will face the winner of Czech Republic vs Denmark back at Wembley on Wednesday July 7, with kick-off 8pm.
The final will take place at Wembley on Sunday July 11 at 8pm.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
