Exciting England Squad Update: Surprise Ahead for Man Utd's Harry Maguire; Jordan Henderson, James Ward-Prowse Locked in Intense Battle for Spot

Harry Maguire is expected to be named in England's squad for the upcoming international matches against Ukraine and Scotland, despite not making an appearance for Manchester United this season. Erik Ten Hag has favored Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelhof over Maguire for United this season.

Maguire has turned down the chance to join West Ham, stating his preference to remain and compete for a starting spot at Old Trafford. With injuries to Stones and Mings, and Dier not even making the Tottenham bench in the opening three Premier League matches, Maguire is now poised to retain his position in the England squad as Southgate seeks experienced defenders.

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Harry Maguire is likely to stay at Manchester United this summer despite interest from West Ham

It will, nevertheless, be a controversial selection if Maguire gets the nod.

Maguire, despite limited playing time at his club, has consistently been a key player in Southgate's squads. He proved to be England's top defender in the Qatar World Cup tournament. Displaying unwavering loyalty, the England boss stated in May that he cannot solely select players based on their current form, as it would result in inconsistency among squads.

Brighton's Lewis Dunk is expected to be included in the squad due to defensive absences. He was previously named in the last squad but had to withdraw due to a back injury before the team assembled at St George's Park. Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi is likely to retain his place, while there is a possibility of a formal call up for Levi Colwill.

Having started in all three of Chelsea's initial matches under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, the 20-year-old has garnered attention. With eleven appearances for the U21s under his belt, he had the opportunity to practice with the England senior team in May when Dunk withdrew. Although he was not included in the matchday squad three months ago, there is a possibility of a change now.

Raheem Sterling is set to make a comeback to the team, following an impressive beginning to the season with Chelsea. Demonstrating exceptional performance in two matches, he scored two goals and provided an assist against Luton, proving that he is back to his top form.

And after being rested from the last England squad in May, he will be included once again by Southgate this time.

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Jordan Henderson sought reassurances from Gareth Southgate before making the decision to move to the Saudi Pro League

This squad will serve as the initial examination of Jordan Henderson's future with England, after his transition to the Saudi Pro League.

Before departing Liverpool last month, Henderson sought assurance from Southgate, but it is believed that the England manager did not provide any guarantees. Subsequently, Henderson has taken up the captaincy at Al Ettifaq under the leadership of new manager Steven Gerrard in Dammam, resulting in a varied beginning.

Southgate has affirmed that the 33-year-old will not be disregarded due to his move to Saudi Arabia. The determining factor will be whether others have surpassed him in the England manager's ranking.

Jude Bellingham will certainly rejoin the squad after pulling out last time due to a knee injury. Declan Rice is a guaranteed selection, while Conor Gallagher would be understandably disappointed if he loses his place in the England squad considering his strong start to the season and his consistent presence in Chelsea's four matches.

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Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham has been on top form since his move to LaLiga

It may come down to a straight choice between Henderson and James Ward-Prowse.

The ex-Southampton player has made an immediate impact at his new team, West Ham, with a goal and two assists already under his belt.

With Bellingham and Rice being definite choices, it seems unlikely that there will be space for Ward-Prowse, Henderson, Gallagher, and Kalvin Phillips, leading to challenging decisions in the midfield.

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James Ward-Prowse has impressed for West Ham in the early part of the season

Similarly, there are issues to address in the full-back areas, with Reece James and Luke Shaw both injured.

Ben Chilwell, Kieran Trippier, and Kyle Walker are all expected to be included in the squad. Since Trent Alexander-Arnold will be playing as a midfielder instead of a defender once again, the question arises whether a fourth full-back is necessary. If it is, there is a possibility that Brentford's Rico Henry might make it into the team.

Jarrod Bowen's impressive performances for West Ham this season have undoubtedly caught the eye of England manager, Southgate. It is possible that he may be awarded an opportunity to enhance his international tally, although Southgate's reign has consistently shown an abundance of choices in the wide attacking positions. Among these options is Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, who earned his maiden call-up earlier this year.

Naturally, Harry Kane will be a guaranteed inclusion in the squad since his recent transfer to the Bundesliga. However, it remains uncertain as to which other striker(s) will join him in the final squad selection.

Three months ago, Callum Wilson was the sole authentic No 9 in Newcastle's squad (though Marcus Rashford occasionally fills that role). However, with Alexander Isak taking over Wilson's position in Newcastle's starting XI, it is now Ollie Watkins who may receive the opportunity.

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Harry Kane has scored three goals in as many games since his move to Bayern Munich

Watkins has made an impressive start for Aston Villa so far this season, scoring a hat-trick against Hibernian in the Europa Conference League.