England receive Euro 2024 boost as rivals suffer devastating injury blow days before first match

England have been handed a potential boost for Euro 2024 as one of their rivals has suffered a huge injury blow ahead of the tournament.

On Sunday, the Three Lions will begin their quest for Euro 2024 glory as they take on Serbia at Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen.

Heading into the tournament, England are one of the favourites to go all the way as Gareth Southgate looks to finally lead his men to victory after agonisingly missing out three years ago against Italy.

With just a few days left before the start of Euro 2024, one of England’s rivals, the Netherlands have been handed a devastating injury blow.

Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who was already an injury doubt, has been ruled out of the tournament.

Taking to social media, De Jong wrote: “I'm sad and disappointed that I won't make it to the EC. We've been doing a lot of it the past few weeks, but my ankle needs more time unfortunately.

“It's a dream and greatest honor to represent our country in a final tournament. Wearing the orange shirt, singing the Wilhelmus and feeling the support of the entire country. But now I will, like the entire orange legion, cheer for our team from the sidelines. Let’s go boys.”

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Manager Ronald Koeman said: “Tests have shown that Frenkie de Jong is constantly getting reactions from his training sessions. We had to conclude that even in the coming 3 weeks he won't reach full fitness.

“Frenkie de Jong has a history with this injury so we have to think about his health. The club over there decided to take risks and this is the price we have to pay for it.”

England could potentially face the Netherlands in the semi-finals of the competition if they finish second in their group.

De Jong’s teammate, Memphis Depay added: “Frenkie de Jong not going to the EURO'S is painful. For the team, for the manager and mostly for Frenkie.

“He worked very hard to be there, but he still has a long career ahead of him and he needs to be wise.”

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