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    Joe Cole leaves out THREE massive names for his England Euro 2024 squad including Man Utd star and in-form striker

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    JOE COLE’S England squad includes Kobbie Mainoo- but NOT Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins or Jack Grealish.Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate is set to name a provisional squad on May 21.Joe Cole has pipped Ivan Toney to make the team ahead of Ollie WatkinsCredit: GettyThe ex-Chelsea defender believes Marcus Rashford could just miss out due to competition on the left wingCredit: GettyThe debate still remains whether there will be 26 or 23 players in squads for the tournament.But Southgate has a tough task on his hands in choosing the best forward players to bring to Euro 2024.And that is where Cole turned to when referencing THREE major names that he thinks should miss out on a spot on the plane to Germany.Speaking to promote the launch of the Topps official trading cards and stickers, Cole gave his squad predictions.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe ex- England defender said: “It sounds ridiculous but the character of the players comes into the thinking and what it means to them.”I’m a big fan of Rashford, he’s hit big heights in his career but for no fathomable reason he’ll go on a run where people start questioning him again. “For me, you only take Marcus if you’re going to start him. He’s at the age now that I think that’s where his mind is and I wouldn’t start him ahead of Phil Foden, Harry Kane or Bukayo Saka.”This is no defamation of his character and ability but at this time in his life and situation at United, I think he could be the one that’s left out. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERInjury ridden Jack Grealish wouldn’t make Cole’s team ahead of Bowen or GordonCredit: Getty”Also with Grealish, I love him, but how can you take him ahead of someone who is playing week in week out like a James Maddison or Jarrod Bowen who is doing it and who is match fit?”Grealish is perhaps the most surprising omission, but he has been limited to 15 Prem appearances for Manchester City this season due to injury.His groin problem caused him to miss out on the last England squad, with the likes of Bowen and Anthony Gordon pushing their cases for inclusion, while Cole Palmer remains an option.Another debate regarding the squad is who goes as back-up to Kane, with Southgate likely to take only one extra forward due to squad size restraints.Tom Barclay picks his England team for Euro 2024Watkins leads the way with 16 Prem goals this season but Toney’s physicality proved too strong for Cole.Cole said: “It’s the real tough one and I feel like one of them will be really disappointed and rightly feel hard done by.”Toney took his chance, not just with his penalty but the way he played too. Watkins had a harder task against Brazil.”I would go with Toney, he’s got the mindset and something in him that tells me he can play for England. “He’s not going to be panicking over a penalty, he’s the calmest man in the world and that comes into it too.”England will have to get past France to win 2024 More

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      England star set to return from injury and launch late bid to be in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad

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      ENGLAND star Nick Pope is set to return to action before the end of the season and make a late push to be in the Euro 2024 squad. The Newcastle man’s return date had been uncertain before now.Nick Pope on track to return after shoulder injuryCredit: GettyGareth Southgate has launched a late bid for Pope to be in his Euro 2024 squadCredit: RexGareth Southgate is in need of shot stoppers with uncertainty around his back-up options.Pope came off injured in the 1-0 win over Manchester United in December after dislocating his shoulder. He has been ruled out since but is now on track to return before the end of the season and is expected to play some part in the final games of the campaign.The 31-year-old made the Three Lions squad for the 2022 World Cup but did not make an appearance. READ MORE IN EUROSPope has 10 England caps, making his last appearance in the 3-3 draw against Germany in the UEFA Nation’s League fixture in September 2022. Southgate’s plans over the recent international window were turned upside down by an injury pile-up, meaning he’ll be keen to see any options back in contention.Sam Johnstone, a back-up option to Jordan Pickford, is currently out injured and looks set to miss the Euros.Meanwhile Aaron Ramsdale isn’t playing for Arsenal.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe desire for more options could see Southgate support a proposal for bigger squads.Squad numbers increased from 23 to 26 at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, but were expected to revert back to 23 this summer. Tom Barclay picks his England team for Euro 2024However, Southgate is considering backing a call from other coaches to take an expanded 26-strong due to England’s injury crisis.He is scheduled to announce the training squad on Tuesday May 21, just two days after the Premier League ends. England will kick off Euro 2024 against Serbia in on Sunday June, 16 before taking on Denmark on Thursday June, 20. More

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      Euro 2024 terror warning to England fans after ISIS Moscow attack and kamikaze drones raise ‘dangers to new level’

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      ENGLAND fans have been warned of a new terror threat for Euro 2024.The Islamist attack in Moscow has raised “dangers to a new level”, said German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, just 75 days before kick-off.England fans travelling to Germany to watch Gareth Southgate’s team have been warned of a new terror threat for Euro 2024Credit: GettyThe warning comes just 75 days before kick-offCredit: AdidasThe Islamist attack in Moscow has raised ‘dangers to a new level’, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser saidCredit: APMs Faeser added: “We are pooling the forces of the security authorities even more strongly for the Euros and are preparing for all possible dangers.“This is necessary to protect this major international event in the best possible way.“The security of the tournament is paramount.”Her chilling alert came just days after the ISIS-K terrorist atrocity at a concert hall in Moscow killed 143.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAmong the drastic steps taken to protect Three Lions fans at the tournament in June will be a plan to temporarily close borders and ramp up frontier checks. British police will also be in Germany.A ring of steel will be thrown around every team base, including the home for Gareth Southgate’s England stars, such as skipper Harry Kane and young sensation Jude Bellingham.They will stay at the swish five-star Weimarer Land Golf Resort and Spa in Blankenhain – with Wags and families also protected.Most read in FootballIt comes amid fears of a menacing reaction from Russia after they were banned from taking part in the Euros – and enemy nation Ukraine qualified last week.Author and terrorism expert Neil Doyle said: “Euro 2024 represents a major target for groups looking to mount mass casualty attacks for revenge and global headlines.Inside England’s stunning Euro 2024 hotel with golf course, spa and robot “The use of drones will be a major concern as they have become a new feature of modern warfare, as seen in Ukraine.“Germany as a location in itself is also attractive as it has backed Ukraine with arms and equipment.”Security expert Colonel Richard Kemp, who has worked for the Joint Intelligence Committee and national crisis group Cobra, said: “Russia would like to disrupt this event in some way, such as a cyber attack, and they would hope to embarrass the German government.”As more than half a million UK nationals prepare to be in Germany for the tournament starting in 75 days, Ms Faeser said: “One thing can be said for sure – the dangers have reached a new level.”She added: “The state is arming itself even more strongly against all current threats.“This ranges from protection against Islamists and other ­potential violent criminals to the security of our networks against cyber attacks.”The state is arming itself even more strongly against all current threatsGerman Interior Minister Nancy FaeserAleksander Ceferin, president of tournament organisers Uefa, has spoken of the “world going crazy” and warned: “The biggest concern is security.” Germany will host 23 other nations – including England and Scotland – during the month-long 51-game football showpiece kicking off on June 14.Experts warn both the Russians and Islamists have access to high-tech kamikaze dronesCredit: AFPVladimir Putin runs an army of web warriorsCredit: GettyFar-right Alternative for ­Germany (AfD) is also gaining popularityCredit: RexAfD politician Rene SpringerCredit: Getty’Vital to be safe’Last night, fans were urged to be on high alert for the dangers, with British police being deployed to Germany.A UK government spokesman said: “Football fans all over the country will be looking forward to a summer of football. “We are working with the German police to support a safe and trouble-free tournament. “A UK police delegation will be deployed to Germany during the event and we will also be offering support and advice on how to engage with fans attending from the UK.”Caroline Dinenage, Tory MP and chairwoman of the sports select committee, said:  “Given the safety concerns, it’s vital to be safe, follow the rules, stay vigilant and most of all, have fun.”Referring to Ms Faeser’s warning, Damian Green, Tory MP and former deputy PM, who sits on the sports select committee, said: “This is a disturbing and sobering ­comment for all of us who love ­visiting Germany. “It is always important to listen to local advice about how to stay safe.”Tim Loughton, Tory MP and a member of the Home Affairs select committee, said: “With terrorist threat levels heightened across the world it is a sad reality of modern life that popular international sporting occasions have routinely become targets for attacks by ­fanatical groups who would undermine everything we stand for.”Safety fears centre on gun-carrying Islamists sneaking into Germany among migrants from the Middle East, and Russian agents entering among Ukrainians fleeing the war.Given the safety concerns, it’s vital to be safe, follow the rules, stay vigilant and most of all, have funCaroline Dinenage, Tory MP and chairwoman of the sports select committeeGerman intelligence experts say the biggest threat is an attack from the same ISIS-K group’s gun gangs which slaughtered 143 rock fans in Moscow last weekend.Both the Russians and Islamists have access to high-tech kamikaze drones which could cause mayhem if smuggled into Germany.Unmanned flying drones have added a new dimension to the ­terrorist threat after being used by both sides in the Ukraine war and Islamists of Gaza, Yemen, Iran, Syria and Lebanon.  ‘Danger increases’One of the greatest fears at Euro 2024 is a potentially devastating drone attack on a stadium or large gathering of fans.Drone expert Professor Nicolas Stockhammer warned: “Isis in particular has repeatedly used drones in attacks over the past ten years.“But technology is more readily available today for both kamikaze drones and as drones equipped with explosive charges.“And the danger increases if the attackers succeed in capturing modern military drones such as those being used in the current war zones.”Authorities suspect Russia’s army of cyber hackers are gearing up to cause computer chaos with attacks on stadium lights, transport, ticketing and security systems.The Kremlin’s industrial scale hacking operations look certain to ramp up as Vladimir Putin seethes over Russia’s exclusion from the tournament.Ms Faeser also spoke of her ­concern about the threat posed by far-right groups feared to be graduating from hate crime to terrorism.Neo-Nazi thugs have fired up ­bigotry since Germany absorbed more than two million migrants followed by a million refugees from the war in neighbouring Ukraine.Ms Faeser said: “We thwarted right-wing extremist acts and uncovered a large terrorist network of German citizens.”Far-right Alternative for ­Germany (AfD) is gaining popularity, with politicians such as Rene Springer sitting in the German parliament.Yesterday, the FA said security was a matter for the Foreign Office.We approached Uefa for comment.German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser says: ‘The state is arming itself even more strongly against all current threats’Credit: GettyA ring of steel will be thrown around every team base, including the home for Gareth Southgate’s England stars, such as Jude BellinghamCredit: Alamy More

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      Inside England’s stunning Euro 2024 hotel with golf course, spa and ROBOT – but Wags will be 20 miles away

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      ENGLAND are taking over a luxury 94-room resort for Euro 2024 – but will leave their Wags 20 miles away.The FA have reportedly paid £800,000 to book the whole of a German golf and spa centre, which even boasts a robot to collect dishes.The Weimarer Land golf resort and Spa is set to host England at Euro 2024Credit: Darren FletcherA luxuriant sauna will be among the facilities on handCredit: Darren FletcherThe squad will have timber-clad rooms or suitesCredit: Darren FletcherEngland’s stay is expected to cost around £800kCredit: Darren FletcherThe players will have digital pads linked to phones to contact hotel staffCredit: Darren FletcherEngland stars will be treated to the best facilitiesCredit: Darren FletcherBut the Three Lions are taking their own chefs and are expected to avoid having the players’ partners anywhere near.It’s claimed the FA are seen to ensure no repeat of the “circus” seen the last time England competed in Germany in a major tournament.That was when the Three Lions limped through to a quarter-final exit against Portugal on penalties in the 2006 World Cup.The likes of Victoria Beckham, Cheryl Cole, Alex Gerrard and Coleen Rooney made unwanted headlines back then.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it appears the FA are being ultra safe this time around.They’ve secured the Weimarer Land Golf and Spa resort in Blankenhain, including swimming pools, sauna and gym, for the tournament from June 14-July 14.Meanwhile, it’s understood the Wags are looking into staying at a five-star hotel 40 minutes away by car.Manager Gareth Southgate is tipped to have one of the Weimarer’s top three suites, with the golf-themed names of Birdie, Albatross and Eagle.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe outdoor pool should be dazzling when Euro 2024 startsCredit: Darren FletcherMeanwhile, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Co will have timber-lined rooms or suites.Room service will be extra easy – as every man gets a hand-held digital pad linked to the resort’s staff.Man Utd legend Gary Neville gives verdict on Gareth Southgate to Old Trafford rumours as Erik ten Hag fights for job Food-wise, breakfast will be typical of the venue’s normal service.Salmon, organic sourdough breads and eggs are on the menu, alongside fresh orange juice and locally-produced honey.The FA are relying on their own chefs for dinner – to help guarantee perfect sporting nutrition.But Michelin chefs Danny Schwabe and Marcello Fabbri – from the Weimarer’s Augusta and Masters restaurants – will provide an al a carte menu.All in all, it’s well above par for a venue as the hosts of the England squad.Now it’s up to Southgate’s Lions as the visitors on the pitch to be up to scratch as they bid for their first major trophy since 1996.The venue includes unusual touches such as this horseCredit: Darren FletcherThe FA are bringing their own chefs to the hotelCredit: Darren FletcherDowntime will of course include the chance for golfCredit: Darren FletcherThe gym looks plain compared to other aspects of the resortCredit: Darren FletcherThe Three Lions are unlikely to utilise the drinking facilities muchCredit: Darren Fletcher More

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      Ex-Arsenal star and Wales captain Aaron Ramsey to weigh up his international future after Euro 2024 heartbreak

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      AARON RAMSEY is considering his Wales future after their cruel Euro 2024 play-off exit.The Dragons captain, 33, was an unused substitute and watched on as Dan James suffered penalty heartbreak in the 5-4 shootout loss to Poland in Cardiff on Tuesday night.Dan James saw his penalty saved as Wales’ Euro 2024 qualification dreams were ended by Poland.Credit: GettyAaron Ramsey has had a brilliant Wales career, playing at three major tournaments but there are question marks over if he will carry on for the 2026 World Cup qualifiersCredit: Getty ImagesThe painful defeat ended Welsh hopes of qualifying for this summer’s finals in Germany.Ramsey has won 84 caps and is sixth on the all-time list of goalscorers with a tally of 21 strikes.But it is understood to be weighing up whether he will play on for his country in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.The Cardiff midfielder has had an injury-plagued season with a knee injury keeping him out for five months.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAfter returning for two substitute appearances for the Bluebirds, Ramsey picked up a calf injury and was a doubt for the Euro play-offs.He was named in Robert Page’s squad and played 20 minutes for Cardiff in the South Wales derby defeat to Swansea on March 16.But Ramsey did not play a single minute either against Finland in last Thursday’s 4-1 win or the Poland defeat with Ben Davies taking over as captain.Ramsey, who has a year left on his Cardiff contract, was part of three major qualification successes with Wales.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe was named in the team of the tournament at Euro 2016 where Chris Coleman’s men reached the semi-finals.The ex-Arsenal and Juventus star also played at the delayed Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup – Wales’ first global appearance since 1958.The World Cup qualifiers start next March and Ramsey would be 35 by the time the finals in USA, Canada and Mexico come around if Wales qualified.Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, 37, who has 109 caps, is another Wales player who could now weigh up his international future.Page said: “There have been no conversations like that. It’s been an hour since we’ve ended the game. Aaron was a big part of this squad.”It’s not just what he brings on the pitch, it’s off the pitch as well. We want to continue to add to the squad and at the right time we will start introducing the younger ones in.”When quizzed why Ramsey was not brought on in extra-time or for penalties, Page added: “Who could he have come on to replace? “We needed the two 6s in the middle of the park. We weren’t going to take any more gambles or unnecessary risks late on into injury-time.”We made the changes which we thought were going to go on and win us the game.” More

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      Robert Page to remain Wales boss despite Euro 2024 play-off failure

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      ROBERT PAGE will remain Wales boss despite their Euro 2024 play-off failure.The Dragons suffered a penalty shootout heartbreak to Poland on Tuesday night after Dan James’ decisive spot-kick was saved by Wojciech Szczesny.Wales keeper Danny Ward looks gutted after Euro 2024 play-off exitCredit: GettyPage wants to carry on as Wales boss until 2026 and FAW president Steve Williams has backed himCredit: RexFootball Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney publicly stated Page’s position would be reviewed if automatic qualification was not secured.But Page is under contract for two more years and received a vote of confidence yesterday that his job is safe for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.FAW president Steve Williams said: “The FAW can confirm Rob Page is their manager for the forthcoming campaign in accordance with his contract.”Rob is the manager. His contract runs to the end of the World Cup and that is how we continue to work.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDespite the cruel Euro exit on spot-kicks in Cardiff which ended Welsh hopes of qualifying for Germany this summer, Page insists he is “absolutely” the right man to lead Wales forward.SunSport understands there was no break clause in the manager’s contract to activate at the end of the Euro campaign.Page, 49, is the only Welsh manager to lead his country to two major tournaments and he has the support of his squad.Next up is a June 9 friendly in Slovakia before the start of Nations League ties in the autumn and then next year’s World Cup qualifiers.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPage said: “I’ve got a great relationship with Dave Adams, the technical director of the FAW. “We’ve had our issues in the past, haven’t we? It’s been well documented.”But everything’s fine and great. “The board, the chief exec, the president, they see the journey we’re on and what we’re trying to do. They appreciate it.”In 12 months we’ve gone from the retirement of senior players to introducing younger players and being one kick away from qualification.”Poland progressed without even registering a shot on target in 120 minutes – prompting criticism of Page’s tactics and substitutions.But ex-Wales star midfielder Joe Allen, who won 74 caps and retired after the 2022 World Cup, says Page deserves the chance to try and lead the Dragons to the finals in USA, Canada and Mexico.Allen, 34, said: “The two things you have to look for is, are the players supportive of the manager? That’s very evident.”Does the future look bright and is the team improving and that is also evident.“He deserves the chance to carry on and the chance to prove himself again.”Liverpool forward Lewis Koumas, 18, Fulham’s 19-year-old attacker Luke Harris and Cardiff midfielder Rubin Colwill, 21, are viewed as the next generation of talent to come through.Page added: “I know I’ve got a good group of players, great staff, and we’re going on the right path. “There are younger players to be introduced so that’s my next aim.”We haven’t got there this time but with the games in June, we can introduce younger players and build on what we have already got here. We’re going places.”Jordan James will be another Ethan Ampadu and I’ve no doubt he’ll have around 50 caps by the time he is 23.“Having gone through that experience will make them bigger and better in the future. “We’re disappointed but we have learned lessons.”But Wales will be counting the cost of missing out on a £10m-plus windfall.The Dragons would have got a cash boost of almost £8million for just participating in Germany with sponsorship and commercial spin-offs to follow.Now the spotlight will be on Wales’ latest financial results which are due with Companies House by March 31.The failure to qualify will only increase the concerns at the Welsh FA over budget cuts following a series of cost-cutting measures in recent times.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the worrying state of Wales’ finances could explain the public backing of Page as the FAW would have had to stump up a compensation package to bring in a new boss.Mooney, appointed in August 2021, has also made a string of financial promises to the grassroots game in Wales as well as pledging millions to the Welsh Premier. More

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      ‘Very grumpy’ James Maddison sends message to Gareth Southgate after inspiring England’s late comeback against Belgium

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      JAMES MADDISON has told Gareth Southgate: Play me more often and I’ll give you  game-changing moments.The Tottenham midfielder came on as a late sub and teed up Jude Bellingham for England’s last-gasp equaliser in Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Belgium.Maddison has called on Gareth Southgate to give him more game timeCredit: GettyAnd Maddison is adamant he can have the same impact at Euro 2024 — if Three Lions manager Southgate lets him have the opportunity.Maddison was frustrated not to play in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat against Brazil and said: “I know the quality that I have — and that can help this team, most definitely.“You’ve got to show it and you’ve also got to have the opportunity  to show it.“I didn’t feature in the first game, which was disappointing because I wanted to play in a big game at Wembley.READ MORE ON ENGLAND“Against Belgium, I came on and made an impact. I’m showing him what I’m capable of and I just want to show more of that.”Maddison is able to cope better at being left on the bench now he is older.But he admitted growing impatient as he saw gaps open up during the Belgium game before his introduction with 16 minutes to go.The playmaker said: “I’m very, very, very grumpy but once you accept the fact you’re on the bench . . . Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“I’m experienced now, I’m 27. On the odd occasion when I was younger, I’d be sulking, I’d be moody, probably not go about it the right way as a teenage James Maddison.“Now I’m older, I just assess the game and see where I can have an impact.James Maddison had to look up new Tottenham signing on YouTube before he became ‘best in his position in league’“Watching on the side, I could see there was quite a lot of space between the lines, where I like to play, so I was thinking, ‘Come on, Gareth . . . there’s a lot  of space’.“I knew I’d be able to have an impact.”Maddison is even hungrier to make his mark at Euro 2024 after going to the World Cup in Qatar but not playing a single minute.He said: “That was a very difficult time, what people don’t see behind the curtain.“I had an injury that I just couldn’t shake off. I got myself back training after the group stages but I wasn’t really right.“I was so disappointed, because going to a major tournament with your country is the pinnacle and you want to impact.“I’m hungry to get there now.”As for England’s chances in Germany this summer, Maddison knows they will have to show more than they did in this month’s two Wembley friendlies.But he is taking comfort from how he and Southgate’s makeshift team kept going on Tuesday to prevent the Three Lions  suffering back-to-back defeats at Wembley for the first time since 2013.Maddison has recently recovered from injury for SpursCredit: GettyMaddison said: “It’s a lot better than two defeats — but still not probably quite good enough.“Two home games at Wembley, coming away with what would be one point, that is not enough for us.“I think we are ranked third in the world. We need a bit more.“It’s always difficult with friendlies. We’ve had a lot of injuries as well, the team is very mix and match, a lot of players and partnerships who haven’t played together. It’s not an excuse.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The positive coming out of it is the character we showed to keep going until the very last minute and score right at the end.“That is going to be massive in tournament football.” More

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      ‘This is England’s time’ says Roberto Mancini as Three Lions tipped to finally break trophy hoodoo at Euro 2024

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      ROBERTO MANCINI says now MUST be the time for England to finally break their trophy hoodoo.The former Italy boss  masterminded their Euro 2020 final win over the Three Lions at Wembley as the visitors recovered from going behind to Luke Shaw’s early goal to win a penalty shootout.Roberto Mancini is confident England can win Euro 2024Credit: GettyEngland boss Gareth Southgate lost to Mancini’s Italy at Euro 2020Credit: RexBut Mancini, now in charge of Saudi Arabia, believes England are running out of excuses for not ending their 58-year major trophy drought.He said: “In England at this moment, there are many very good players.“I don’t know if there’s a comparison with the time that [David] Beckham, [Wayne] Rooney and [Paul] Scholes were around but they have very good players, great talent.“It’s very good for them [Jude] Bellingham plays for Real Madrid as I really think he can improve more there as a player. He is one of the very good players England have developed in the past five years and they have a lot of really good attacking playersRead More on Football“But now is the time when they have to show that and win, whether that’s in the European Championships next summer or the World Cup.“This is the time for them, the moment for them to show that they are a team that can win these major trophies.”Mancini also recognises the critical importance of Bayern Munich superstar Harry Kane to England.He added: “I like Kane, very much. Some  people ask if Kane is a No 9 or a No 10 — and he’s both. He can play everywhere.Most read in Football“There are not many who can do what he does as well, he’s a real talent.“Yes, I beat England in that final and it was a fantastic game of football.Ian Wright slams Gareth Southgate over England decision that ‘doesn’t make sense’ after Brazil and Belgium clashes“We played very well but I think England have developed since then, they are a better team now.” More

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      Watkins, Toney, Mainoo, Grealish… which England stars make the cut and who doesn’t in our expert’s 23-man Euros squad?

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      THEY say the England manager role is the impossible job.That seems accurate when you consider the difficulty of whittling down the Euros squad to just 23 players. Gareth Southgate was impressed with Kobbie Mainoo’s full debut against BelgiumCredit: GettyIt is the first time in three major tournaments that Gareth Southgate has not had 26 to play with.That was after allowances were made for Covid at Euro 2020 and the mid-season nature of the World Cup in Qatar two years later.Tricky calls will have to be made on the likes of Ollie Watkins, Kobbie Mainoo, Ezri Konsa, Jack Grealish and more.Injuries are already wreaking havoc with Southgate’s selections – and no doubt more will flare up before the squad is picked on May 21.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSunSport’s Tom Barclay steps into the Three Lions boss’ shoes to pick his 23.GOALKEEPERSJordan Pickford did not have a great game against Belgium – but will be No1Credit: GettyJordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, Nick PopeJORDAN PICKFORD is the undisputed No1 and despite having a mistake in him – as proven for Belgium’s opener on Tuesday night – the Everton stopper will start every game in Germany.Then it is just a matter of picking his back-ups who are unlikely to play anyway.Most read in Euro 2024I would argue Aaron Ramsdale is a better keeper than Pickford but it is hard to make a case for him to start when he is warming the bench at Arsenal. Gareth Southgate presents Kobbie Mainoo, Anthony Gordon and Ezri Konsa with England caps after their debuts v BrazilIn lieu of other options though, I would still take him. Cruelly, Crystal Palace stopper Sam Johnstone has been ruled out for the tournament after elbow surgery.If Nick Pope can prove his fitness between now and the end of the season at Newcastle, he would be my third choice.Jack Butland is having a good season north of the border at Rangers but I would favour keepers playing in the Premier League as it is a higher standard.I watched James Trafford perform miracles as England won the Under-21 Euros in Georgia last summer but his form this year at Burnley has been less convincing.FULL-BACKSInjured Luke Shaw (far right) worked on his fitness with England this fortnightCredit: AFPKyle Walker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kieran Trippier, Luke ShawWE have a crisis at left-back with Luke Shaw a huge injury doubt and no one really pushing their case behind the Manchester United man.Ben Chilwell struggled against Brazil and was marginally better against Belgium.The Chelsea man should be picked if Shaw does not make it.But it sums up how worrying the situation is that I would still go for Shaw even if he only makes the last few games of the season for United.Kieran Trippier’s versatility offers some comfort and he is likely to be the man starting at left-back against Serbia on June 16.The Newcastle man, 33, offers cover for Kyle Walker at right-back too.Trent Alexander-Arnold must go – what a creative option to have if you are chasing a game – but his most likely route to a starting spot is probably in midfield.CENTRE-BACKSJoe Gomez (centre) and Ezri Konsa (second right) have played their way into the frameCredit: GettyHarry Maguire, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Joe GomezBARRING injury, Harry Maguire and John Stones start this summer for Southgate, no question. And given the lack of other options – plus Maguire’s renaissance at Old Trafford this season  – fewer people would argue with that than they would have done six months ago.Lewis Dunk unfortunately looks to have played himself out of the squad with his poor displays in the last week.Joe Gomez’s versatility, being able to play centre-back, right-back, left-back and in midfield, on the back of an excellent season at Liverpool warrants his inclusion.Jarrad Branthwaite is exciting but after getting no game-time at all this international break, his chances look over.Then it is a toss-up between Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi.Konsa performed well on his first start against Belgium and has had a great season at Aston Villa.Southgate sees Guehi has his first reserve so will likely pick him provided he is well recovered from the knee problem currently sidelining him.But given the question marks over other injuries, Konsa’s form and fitness gives him the nod.CENTRAL MIDFIELDERSMainoo, still only 18, put in an all-action display against BelgiumCredit: GettyDeclan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Jordan Henderson, Jude Bellingham, James MaddisonKOBBIE MAINOO was the revelation of this international break after a fearless first start against Belgium.He not only played his way into the squad with his display, but perhaps even into the team.In contrast, Conor Gallagher’s underwhelming performance against Brazil may well have cost him.The Chelsea man was OK but given the numbers are so tight for this squad, I feel 18-year-old Mainoo takes his place.Jordan Henderson has had a hell of a 12 months but his experience, leadership and organisational skills will see him included.James Maddison’s clever pass for Jude Bellingham’s last-gasp strike underlined why he should go too – he has the ability to win tight games off the bench against any opposition.WINGERSCole Palmer has had a stellar season for Chelsea but is in a battle with Jarrod BowenCredit: GettyBukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Gordon, Cole PalmerBUKAYO SAKA obviously starts wide right and Phil Foden needs to be in the team, perhaps in that central role that saw him flourish in the second half against Belgium.After that, it is wide open.Marcus Rashford surprisingly did not start either friendly this week but his performances for England have generally been good, irrespective of his Manchester United form.He can also play through the middle and offers something different with his running in behind.After that, Anthony Gordon’s work-rate, directness and confidence have done enough to win me over. You can play him on either side too.Jarrod Bowen was very good against Belgium so it is painful to leave him out, but I just think Cole Palmer is a better technical player.If England are 1-0 down with ten minutes to go, I would back the Chelsea man over Bowen to make an impact.Jack Grealish has it all to do after an injury-hit season and right now he is not making it.STRIKERSIvan Toney struck his first England with a penalty against BelgiumHarry Kane, Ivan ToneyIVAN TONEY did enough against Brazil to edge out Ollie Watkins in the battle to be Harry Kane’s back-up.The Brentford striker just looks a better fit for Southgate’s style and was far more involved than Watkins was against Brazil.READ MORE SUN STORIESToney’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play is closer to Kane’s style – plus he proved his penalty prowess.The question after that is do you take Watkins as well – but with only 23, he does not make the cut. More