England’s Luke Shaw remains doubtful for their final Euro 2024 group stage game against Slovenia, despite earlier hopes that this match would mark his return from injury, according to a report. Shaw, 28, is the only natural left-back in the Three Lions’ squad for this summer’s tournament.
His selection was considered risky due to his long-term absence from the field since February, caused by a muscle injury. In Shaw’s absence, Kieran Trippier has been starting at left-back for England’s first two group stage matches.
The Daily Telegraph reported that Gareth Southgate initially planned to gradually reintegrate Shaw into the team by giving him some playing time against Slovenia in their final group stage match on Tuesday. However, this plan is now looking increasingly unlikely.
Shaw was expected to join the rest of the squad for outdoor training on Friday, alongside players who did not feature in England’s 1-1 draw with Denmark. Instead, he trained alone indoors, raising doubts about his fitness for the upcoming match.
A source informed the Telegraph that there remains a significant risk of Shaw suffering another injury if he is rushed back into action too soon. This caution is due to the delicate nature of his recovery and the potential for aggravating his existing condition.
Before the start of Euro 2024, Shaw expressed his frustration with how his injuries had been managed throughout the season. Southgate also noted that Shaw could have possibly participated in the match against Denmark, indicating that his recovery was progressing, albeit slowly.
Meanwhile, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag suggested that England’s strategy was to reintegrate Shaw into the playing squad during the knockout stages of the tournament rather than during the final group matches.
Shaw’s last competitive appearance was in Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Luton Town in February, during which he was substituted at half-time. Over the course of the 2023/24 season, Shaw made only 15 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils, underscoring the extent of his injury troubles.
Despite these setbacks, Shaw has been a crucial player for England at the international level. He played a significant role in the team’s recent history, notably scoring the opening goal in the Euro 2020 final against Italy, a match England ultimately lost. His experience and skill make him a valuable asset to the squad, and his absence is keenly felt.
As England prepares for their final group stage match against Slovenia, the uncertainty surrounding Shaw’s fitness continues to be a point of concern.
Southgate and his team must weigh the risks of bringing Shaw back too soon against the potential benefits of having him on the field.
The decision will likely be influenced by the medical assessments in the days leading up to the match and the strategic considerations for the knockout stages of the tournament. Shaw’s potential return remains uncertain, and his fitness will be closely monitored as England navigates the remainder of their Euro 2024 campaign.
