Gareth Southgate is expected to overlook Joe Gomez once again, favoring an untested player at left-back if Kieran Trippier is unable to start for England.
Gomez has been benched throughout Euro 2024, missing out on playing time in all three group stage matches as Southgate has maintained a consistent defense.
However, Trippier, who has been managing a calf injury, remains uncertain for the last-16 match against Slovakia after missing Friday’s training session. The Newcastle defender did participate in Saturday’s training, offering some hope for his inclusion, along with specialist left-back Luke Shaw, who is also expected to start on the bench.
The surprising development is that, should Trippier be unfit to start, Southgate is reportedly considering Aston Villa center-back Ezri Konsa as a makeshift left-back over Gomez, despite Konsa having no experience in the position.
According to Sky Sports, Konsa is being considered for the left-back role, even though TransferMarkt records show he has never played there in over 300 career matches. Conversely, Gomez began his career at left-back under Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool and played there 19 times last season.
This decision highlights the ongoing criticisms of Southgate’s management, suggesting a lack of recognition for Gomez’s versatility and experience. Despite the possibility of Trippier starting, the fact that Konsa is being considered over Gomez is telling of Southgate’s approach.
The growing unease around Southgate’s decisions continues to build pressure as England prepares for their crucial match on Sunday. For Gomez, it appears his chances of playing remain slim under the current management.
