Euro 2024: England dealt blow as key man set to be suspended for quarter-final if they defeat Slovakia after picking up early booking
England could be without centre-back Marc Guehi should they get past Slovakia through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Euro 2024. The Crystal Palace man got into the book after just three minutes of action against Slovakia in the Round of 16 on June 30.
Kieran Trippier's poor backpass was latched onto by Slovakia attacker David Strelec. He knocked it past the full-back, eventually forcing Guehi to commit a foul to prevent a big goalscoring chance. He received his first yellow back in England's last group-stage fixture, a 0-0 draw against Slovenia.
Guehi has been a solid presence at the back for Southgate's side. They have been content to take up a more defensive approach to the game, a move that has been criticised by many. He hasn't missed a single minute of action in Euro 2024 and has formed a strong partnership in central defense alongside Manchester City's John Stones.
The 23-year-old enjoyed a good 2023-24 campaign with Crystal Palace. He made 29 appearances in all competitions, helping keep eight clean sheets.
Gareth Southgate defends selection policy as England face Slovakia in Round of 16
England manager Gareth Southgate hit back at the criticism of his selections. The Three Lions head coach emphasised the need for continuity, going on to point out the positive impact of his substitutions.
He said (via The Mirror):
"A team is never quite as poor as people might think, and never quite as good as people might think. You're probably about five per cent off where you'd like to be. Therefore you've got to be very careful not to throw everything out the window, lose things you're doing well and lose continuity and the confidence that comes from players playing together and the understanding that comes with that."
He added:
“You have to ignore external advice and be assured in what you're doing. Equally, we've had some players who have come in and had a big impact from the bench.
"Our substitutions in all of the matches have had a big impact, and we're mindful people are pushing for places, there's competition, we need that strength in depth."
Southgate has come under heavy fire for his choices in the playing XI, notably in midfield. He tried Trent Alexander-Arnold for two games before making a switch to Conor Gallagher, eventually starting Kobbie Mainoo against Slovakia on Sunday.
England fans have also expressed their frustration over the lack of minutes for attackers like Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon. The absence of a natural left-back outside Luke Shaw has also left many confused.