July 9th 2024.
Gareth Southgate has a tough decision on his hands as he prepares for England's Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands. The manager is still contemplating whether to start Luke Shaw or Kieran Trippier at left-back. In the previous quarter-final match against Switzerland, Shaw was substituted in and helped secure England's spot in the final four. Trippier, on the other hand, has been filling in at left-back throughout the tournament but has not been as effective in attacking due to being right-footed.
Shaw, who plays for Manchester United, had been out with an injury for four months and only recently returned to the field. He declared himself fit and ready to start in the upcoming match, but Southgate wants to carefully consider all his options before making a decision. He believes Shaw brings a different dynamic to the team, but also acknowledges the important role Trippier has played in past games.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Southgate praised both players and their contributions to the team. He also mentioned that Trippier has been a key member of the squad for the past seven to eight years and is held in high regard by both players and staff. Regardless of who is chosen, Southgate feels fortunate to have such talented players at his disposal.
As England aims to reach their first-ever major tournament final on foreign soil, they will have to overcome a tough opponent in the Netherlands. The two teams have a history of close matches, with England only winning once in their last nine meetings. However, captain Harry Kane believes they can use their past experiences, both at the club and international level, to help them prepare for the match and control their nerves and excitement.
Kane also emphasized the importance of taking each game step by step and not underestimating their opponent. He knows the team has a goal and target in mind and they are getting closer to achieving it with every match. As they face the Netherlands, Kane wants his teammates to lean on their experience and leadership to guide them through the game and seize the opportunity to reach back-to-back European Championship finals, a feat that would be a tremendous achievement for the team.
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