Analysis of Key Omissions from England's Euro 2024 Provisional Squad

Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford was not included in England's provisional squad for the European Championships. On Tuesday, England manager Gareth Southgate revealed a 33-man squad that will later be narrowed down to 26 players for the tournament starting on June 14 in Germany.

Rashford, who is 26 years old, has played in 60 matches for England and scored 17 goals. But this season, he has been struggling to perform well for his club, Manchester United, only scoring eight goals in 42 games.

In a statement to reporters, Southgate said, "Making these decisions is tough. I believe that other players in Rashford's position have had more successful seasons."

Shortly after the announcement, Rashford shared an Instagram story of the England provisional squad, sending well wishes to Gareth and the team for the upcoming tournament.

Unfortunately, former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, Ajax midfielder Jordan Henderson, Chelsea skipper Reece James, and teammate Raheem Sterling did not make it to the squad.

Southgate is hoping to lead the England men's team to a first major trophy since 1966.

Southgate is hoping to lead the England men's team to a first major trophy since 1966.

Alex Grimm/Getty Images

Henderson had a turbulent season, including a short spell at Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq before moving to Ajax in January where he has been sidelined by injuries.

Henderson has given himself a good opportunity, according to Southgate. The deciding factor was the injury he sustained during the last international camp.

Southgate mentioned, "He was out for five weeks and couldn't regain the same level of intensity in his game since then. Despite being a great professional, it was a tough decision to make."

United's rising star Kobbie Mainoo has been selected for the squad, joining teammates Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. Despite Shaw's long injury break, he is still part of the team.

England's top goal scorer, Harry Kane, will be backed by talented players like Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, Manchester City's Phil Foden, and Arsenal's Bukayo Saka.

Southgate has selected five uncapped players for the upcoming matches: Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah from Liverpool, Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace, Jarrad Branthwaite from Everton, and James Trafford from Burnley.

After their loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final three years ago, England aims to perform even better in the upcoming matches.

Editor's P/S:

The exclusion of Marcus Rashford from England's provisional squad for the European Championships has sparked mixed reactions. While some believe that his recent poor form justifies the decision, others argue that his experience and potential should have earned him a place. Southgate's decision to prioritize players in better form is understandable, but it remains to be seen whether Rashford's absence will ultimately benefit the team.

The inclusion of several uncapped players in the squad is an encouraging sign of England's depth of talent. Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah, Adam Wharton, Jarrad Branthwaite, and James Trafford represent the future of the national team, and their presence in the squad suggests that Southgate is willing to give young players a chance to prove themselves. It will be interesting to see how these players perform in the upcoming matches and whether they can make a significant contribution to England's hopes of success in the tournament.