Erik ten Hag provides Luke Shaw fitness update ahead of England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia
Erik ten Hag shared an update on Luke Shaw's fitness before England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia on Sunday (June 16). The Manchester United full-back has missed action since February after he was forced off against Luton Town with a muscle problem.
Despite Shaw regaining full fitness, Gareth Southgate named the 28-year-old in his 26-man squad for Euro 2024. However, the former Southampton star did not feature against Serbia in England's 1-0 win, with Kieran Tripper playing in an unnatural left-back position.
Ahead of the game, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag opined that the full-back will be back for the Three Lions in the knockout stages. The Dutchman said, as quoted by AFC Ajax on X (formerly Twitter):
"Luke Shaw will start playing once England get out of the group stages."
Shaw has been one of Southgate's most trusted players during the latter's stint as England manager. The Three Lions boss raised many eyebrows by naming the injured Manchester United star in his Euro 2024 squad.
Should Southgate's side make it to the knockout stages, Shaw's return will certainly hand them a major boost. The ex-Southampton defender has earned 31 caps for the Three Lions over the years, scoring thrice and producing nine assists.
The Three Lions will take on Kasper Hjulmand's Denmark in their next group-stage game on Thursday, June 20, and a win would ensure England a place in the knockout stages. Serbia will take on Slovenia on the same day.
Erik ten Hag hails England star following his stellar showing against Serbia
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag lauded Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham following his inspiring performance for England on Sunday. The midfielder scored the all-important 13th-minute winner for the Three Lions, courtesy of a bullet header.
While Gareth Southgate's side were not at their best against Serbia, they managed to secure all three points. Bellingham stole the show with his all-round midfield display while Bukayo Saka, Marc Guehi, and Trent Alexander-Arnold also impressed.
Following the game, Erik ten Hag hailed Bellingham, saying (via The European Lad on X):
"Jude Bellingham is fantastic. He is the drive of England. He attacks but never fails to defend as well."
Bellingham enjoyed a dream debut season at Real Madrid, playing a pivotal role in Los Blancos' double win. Carlo Ancelotti's side won both the La Liga title as well as the Champions League, with Bellingham being one of their best players.
The 20-year-old has already racked up 30 caps for England at senior level, scoring four times while producing five assists. The former Borussia Dortmund star is touted as one of the favorites for Ballon d'Or this season.