England’s current squad is arguably the strongest it has been in a generation, yet there is one position that will undoubtedly spark debate among fans regarding who should start.
Gareth Southgate has a plethora of talent on the wings, and with Bukayo Saka almost certainly securing the right-wing position for the upcoming Euros, the debate arises as to who should start on the left-wing for the Three Lions.
At SportsLens, we’ve compiled a ranking of England’s left-wing options ahead of Euro 2024.
6. Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling entered the 2022 World Cup as a guaranteed starter for England. However, an incident back home compelled him to fly back to be with his family after the group stages. Upon returning to Qatar, Sterling found himself unable to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.
After a challenging debut season at Chelsea, Sterling’s exclusion was reasonable. Initially, it seemed that the former Manchester City man would earn his spot back in the England setup after showing promise at the start of the 2023–24 season. Nevertheless, his inconsistent performances as of late make it challenging to justify selecting him over other candidates on the list.
Sterling’s current tally of 8 goals and 10 assists across all competitions falls far short of the remarkable numbers he achieved during his tenure at Manchester City. In one campaign, he managed an impressive 31 goals and 10 assists.
Raheem Sterling – 23/24 so far pic.twitter.com/9NeTfYkixR
— saka ball (@GR8ftbl) December 3, 2023
5. Anthony Gordon
Gordon has finally showcased this season why Newcastle United invested £45 million in him. With his electrifying pace and goal-scoring ability, the ex-Everton winger has earned a spot in the squad for the March internationals and stands a chance of making the final squad.
With 10 goals and seven assists under his belt this season, Gordon presents England with an abundance of talent on the left flank. Like Saka, his explosive pace and raw talent make him a challenging prospect for defenders to contend with.
What a season Anthony Gordon is having! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/D1xNyIg4fN
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 14, 2024
4. Jack Grealish
Despite facing challenges in consistently displaying his talent since joining Manchester City in 2021, there is no question about the game-changing abilities that Jack Grealish possesses.
Injuries have plagued Grealish this season, and it’s been reported that Pep Guardiola has been disappointed by the winger’s performances in 2023–24. Nonetheless, he remains a regular starter for Gareth Southgate, offering a unique skill set compared to other wingers. Grealish’s exceptional dribbling ability and vision make him one of England’s top wingers.
Jack Grealish~Big Game Player 22/23
Liverpool (H) Prem- 1x⚽️ 1x🅰️ MOTM⭐️
Arsenal (A) Prem- 1x⚽️
Arsenal (H) Fa cup- 1x🅰️
Man United (A) Prem- 1x⚽️
Chelsea (A) Prem- 1x🅰️
Chelsea (H) Caraboa Cup- MOTM⭐️ pic.twitter.com/b4NVKKJY7k
— 18✞ (@prime_citeh) April 7, 2023
3. Marcus Rashford
While Marcus Rashford has faced challenges amid unfavourable conditions, particularly amidst the ongoing turmoil at Manchester United, he appears rejuvenated and performs at his best when representing his country on international duty.
Having scored pivotal goals for England during the 2022 World Cup and even emerging as England’s top goal scorer despite starting just one game, Rashford undeniably poses a threat to any defense. However, it remains uncertain whether he will secure a starting spot under Gareth Southgate this summer.
THANK YOU LOT FOR 5K FOLLOWERS!!!! I VERY MUCH APPRECIATE Y'ALL. Halfway to 10K, we'll be there. 👀
To celebrate, enjoy this Marcus Rashford comp from last season to celebrate him on his birthday. 🔥🔥🔥Comp by @Otaviopropppic.twitter.com/NFCGi66FDb
— 𝔥 🇸🇳 (@UTDHabibii) October 31, 2023
2. Jarrod Bowen
Jarrod Bowen is the epitome of consistency at West Ham United, a club that has faced challenges this season. One thing that can always be counted on is Bowen’s ability to remain a threat in every game.
With 18 goals and 7 assists this season, the winger’s performance leaves Southgate with little choice but to include him. His exceptional left foot and adept dribbling would make him a formidable asset on the left for the Three Lions. Furthermore, his ability to operate across the front three only adds to his versatility and value.
Jarrod Bowen – 23/24 so far ⚡️@_JarrodBowen #WHUFC pic.twitter.com/YAK72rzhu2
— Will ⚒ (@whufc_wills) March 11, 2024
1. Phil Foden
Our clear choice for the left-wing spot is none other than Phil Foden. City’s star boy is enjoying an exceptional season under Pep Guardiola, emerging as the go-to player when the team needs someone to step up.
Blessed with elegance and flair on the ball, he poses a danger to any defense. Having scored 18 goals this season, equaling the highest tally for wingers alongside Jarrod Bowen, he has also contributed 10 assists, highlighting his all-around offensive prowess.
Phil Foden would be our starting left-winger going into Euro 2024 this summer. When assessing potential game-changers in the England squad, Foden’s name undoubtedly belongs among the top contenders.
— ☁️ (@lafodance) March 16, 2024
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