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Soccer

Alan Smith names the major concern for England ahead of Euro 2024

Alan Smith names the major concern for England ahead of Euro 2024Julian Finney/Getty Images
England get their campaign underway on Sunday.

Anticipation is building ahead of England's campaign at Euro 2024. 

The Three Lions get their tournament underway on Sunday when they face Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.

England are considered one of the favourites to lift the trophy and with players such as Harry Kane, Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in attack, there is no surprise that many are backing Gareth Southgate's team to go all the way. 

However, one area of concern is England's defence where there is very little depth, especially at left back where Luke Shaw, who is often first choice for this position, is in a race to get fit for the tournament. 

Speaking to Gambling Zone, former England international and Arsenal striker Alan Smith explained the number of problems facing Southgate when it comes to putting together a formidable defence. 

"He's picked a squad that he feels is the right one. You can look at the defence and maybe worry a bit. What back four will he be able to play? Who's going to partner John Stones?" Smith said.

"Hopefully Stones will be fit after that knock. Marc Guéhi looks like he will get the nod. He played them together against Iceland and is obviously trying to establish a relationship there.

"To not have Maguire is a big blow because he has a good relationship with Stones; that is a pairing with experience and the understanding between the two was excellent.

At left-back, will Luke Shaw be fit? I think he will play Kieran Trippier if there are any doubts about Shaw. Trippier is such a good defender one-v-one and so experienced at this level. Not having a natural left footer does imbalance you a little bit when it's time for him to go forward.

"We've got so many great players going forward, but the challenge is whether or not we can get the balance right and pick a defence that's going to do the business."

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