Tim Sherwood tells Gareth Southgate to build his England team around two players

Tim Sherwood has told Gareth Southgate to build his England team around two players in a stark warning to the Three Lions boss.

England recorded a 2-0 win over Malta on Friday thanks to an own-goal from Enrico Pepe and second-half strike from captain Harry Kane.

Despite the win, plenty of supporters were left frustrated by the performance, believing Southgate is yet to find his best starting XI.

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa manager Sherwood has since had his say on who should be selected for Euro 2024.

Asked whether Rashford should be called up for the tournament in Germany, Sherwood told Sky Sports: "No, not a chance. He can thank his manager for playing his way out of the England team unfortunately.

"I think if he was at Man City now, he's got all the attributes to be a world class player and make the England team.

"I think there's not going to be a turnaround between now and the end of the season unfortunately and I think he can thank [Erik] ten Hag for that because it's not been good enough."

Instead, Sherwood suggested that Southgate should build his squad around Manchester City duo Jack Grealish and Phil Foden.

"For me Jack Grealish has to be there," the 54-year-old continued. "I've worked with Jack, I know what he's like.

"But for Phil Foden not to be in the starting lineup is criminal. Both of these players have to be in the team. We have to build teams round players with ability like this.

Discussing what Grealish can bring to the team, Sherwood added: "I've worked with this boy, I know how good he is. He's incredible and I think in an England shirt, on the big occasion, he will stick his chest out and he'll be the absolute top man."