Gareth Southgate eyes up two impressive Premier League youngsters for next England squad
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England manager Gareth Southgate is looking at freshening up his squad for the Euro 2024 qualifiers, by including two Premier League youngsters.
With the World Cup now fully in football's rear view mirrors, and focus back on whether or not Arsenal will win the Premier League for the first time in 19 years, Southgate has to look to the future.
The England boss has decided to stay on until the end of his contract, having initially been expected to leave following the loss to France.
Not everyone is happy about it but the most successful Three Lions manager since Sir Alf Ramsey will stay on till the Euros in Germany, in 18 months time.
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Many will be hoping that there's some change in Southgate's squad when they take on European champions Italy, and Ukraine, in March.
That need for something different will be boosted by the fact that players are out of form and fitness since returning from the tournament in Qatar last month.
Harry Maguire is one of those, having faced criticism that he was in the squad in the first place, as he's now behind Luke Shaw at centre back when it comes to Manchester United.
And, according to the Athletic, the England boss has a potential replacement for Maguire at left centre-back, in the shape of Brighton's Levi Colwill.
The 19-year-old has become more important to the Roberto de Zerbi's first team in recent weeks, as they've risen to seventh in the league table, after their 3-0 win over Liverpool at the weekend.
Colwill is on loan from Chelsea to Brighton this season and the highly rated teenager has played every minute of the club's last five games.
If he did get into the squad in March, it would be quite the turnaround considering he wasn't on the 55 man longlist for the World Cup, put it's a testament to his recent form.
His parent club must be wondering why in the world they allowed such a talented player to leave Stamford Bridge, whilst they struggle defensively.
They spent big on Wesley Fofana in the summer and have since added young defender Benoit Badiashile to the squad in January.
But Colwill isn't the only young player who could make the step up to the senior squad, with Manchester City's Rico Lewis also being closely watched.
Lewis plays in the most hotly contested position in the squad, right back, but his performances for the Premier League champions have been keeping Joao Cancelo out of the team.
Southgate used Kyle Walker at right back for most of the World Cup, with Kieran Trippier starting there in the opening game against Iran.
Reece James is set to come back from injury next month to push for his return to the squad and Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a contender.
The Liverpool full back's defending was once again questioned during the loss to Brighton at the weekend, as he appeared to freeze as the hosts scored their third goal.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy
Topics: Football, England, Gareth Southgate
