Luke Shaw’s chances of making this summer’s European Championships have been boosted after he returned to England training this week.
The left-back hasn’t played for Manchester United since February 18 and he has suffered an injury-hit campaign for his club, making just 15 appearances throughout the 2023/24 season.
He was considered a doubt to make England’s Euro 2024 squad towards the end of the season and Gareth Southgate also cast doubt on his likely participation when including him in his 33-man provisional squad, describing him as a “long shot” to make the tournament. But the England boss delivered a more positive update last week and Shaw’s return to training is another boost.
ALSO READ: United revealed retained list three senior stars released and two in contract talks
ALSO READ: Erik ten Hag could land new Manchester United contract and job title if he stays
The 28-year-old was back on the grass training at Spurs Lodge since Tuesday, having been in the stands to watch the 3-0 friendly win against Bosnia at St James’ Park on Monday. England conclude their tournament preparations with a friendly against Iceland at Wembley on Friday night, after which they will have to confirm their 26-man squad for the tournament.
That friendly will come too soon for Shaw but his presence in training increases his chances of making the squad, especially as he is the only natural left-back included. England used Kieran Trippier, Ezri Konsa and Joe Gomez in that role against Bosnia.
Southgate will hold a press conference later this evening when he is expected to provide an update on the fitness of Shaw and his club teammate Harry Maguire.
Maguire picked up a muscle injury at the start of May and was initially due to be out for three weeks, but he remains absent from training and could be a doubt to make England’s first game of the tournament against Serbia on Sunday, June 16.
One player who won’t be in the Euro 20204 squad is James Maddison. The Tottenham midfielder featured in England’s win over Bosnia on Monday, coming off the bench in the 3-0 win at St James’ Park.
But he is one of seven players who will be cut from the squad when the final 26 is announced and reports say the heartbroken star has already left the camp.
The 27-year-old has seven senior England caps and was part of Southgate’s line-up for the 2022 World Cup, although he did not make an appearance in Qatar.