Rico Lewis' highlights from England debut give Gareth Southgate problem to solve after UEFA rule change
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Highlights of Rico Lewis' England debut against North Macedonia have gone viral - and it will give Gareth Southgate a major dilemma ahead of Euro 2024.
The Manchester City starlet was a late call-up to the Three Lions squad last week, and came into contention to start after Kieran Trippier's withdrawal due to personal reasons.
The 18-year-old was indeed handed his first cap in the North Macedonian capital of Skopje, with Lewis starting the game at left-back.
His debut didn't get off to an ideal start, as he gave away a controversial penalty after his flailing hand struck the arm of forward Bojan Miovski.
But that was the only blot on an otherwise strong copybook on Lewis' maiden evening as a senior England player.
You can watch highlights of the clash below.
Lewis was named as the player of the match for his efforts. He completed all 59 of his passes, and was an effective presence in joining up with England attacks.
After the match, he was presented with his Three Lions legacy cap by Southgate.
The England boss now has a difficult decision to make ahead of Euro 2024, with Lewis planting himself firmly in the thoughts of the former Middlesbrough defender.
Last month, UEFA announced their decision to cut squad numbers to 23 ahead of the tournament next summer, meaning Southgate will have to choose three fewer players than he did in his squads for the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2020.
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With seven months left until the tournament begins, Lewis does have plenty of time to impress Southgate if the England boss deems that, at the moment, he isn't in position to make the squad.
Luke Shaw will almost certainly go to the tournament if fully fit, while Ben Chilwell is another option at left-back.
But Lewis has done his chances no harm whatsoever - and continuing to perform strongly for Pep Guardiola's side will boost those chances even more.
Featured Image Credit: Getty / Channel 4
Topics: England, Football, Manchester City, Gareth Southgate
