July 14th 2024.
As the much anticipated Euro 2024 final approaches, fans and experts alike are speculating about the starting lineup for the England team. Manchester United's Luke Shaw has been making a strong case for himself to start in the left-back position, and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has expressed his concern about the player's fitness ahead of the crucial match against Spain on Sunday.
Despite not playing at his best throughout the tournament, the Three Lions have managed to secure a spot in the final through a series of intense knockout games. As they prepare to face Spain in Berlin, manager Gareth Southgate has some tough decisions to make regarding his starting eleven. The biggest debate is at left-back, where Shaw is competing with Kieran Trippier for a starting spot. While reports suggest that Trippier will be given the nod, Shaw is expected to come off the bench at some point during the game.
In an interview with BBC Sport, Ratcliffe wished the team the best of luck and expressed his hope that Shaw, who has been dealing with injuries, will not suffer any setbacks during the final. "All the very best of luck on Sunday and I sincerely hope you're successful," he said, showing his support for the team.
On social media, many celebrities have also joined in to wish the team luck, using the hashtag #BBCEuros and #Euro2024. In a tweet, BBC Sport shared a video compilation of these messages, including one from Ratcliffe himself.
Addressing Shaw directly, Ratcliffe jokingly reminded him to take care of his hamstring, which has been a recurring issue for the player. He also took the time to praise 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, who has had a breakthrough tournament after making his senior debut for England just a few months ago. "Kobbie, I think you've played with remarkable maturity for a 19-year-old - well done," he said.
Former England player Wayne Rooney also had high praise for Mainoo, predicting that he will score the winning goal in the final. "I just have a feeling about Mainoo and the final. That he is going to score and prove decisive," Rooney told The Times. He believes that Mainoo's ability to make late runs into the box will be key in breaking down Spain's defense, who will be focused on shutting down other attacking threats like Harry Kane and Phil Foden.
As the excitement builds for the final, fans can't help but speculate about the team's lineup and the potential impact of players like Shaw and Mainoo. But one thing is for sure, the support and encouragement from fans and celebrities alike will be a driving force for the team as they aim for victory.
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