'I know I could do a job' - Premier League star criticises Gareth Southgate for leaving him out of England's Euro 2024 squad amid criticism of selection

Henry has expressed his frustration over being omitted from England's Euro 2024 squad, especially given the injury issues surrounding first-choice left-back Shaw. However, Southgate has defended his selection choices, emphasising that no natural left-back could have performed better than Kieran Trippier in the current setup.

Despite being right-footed, Trippier has been filling in as a left-back for England during the tournament. He has been a dependable presence in England’s defence throughout their first four matches. With Shaw now fit for the quarter-final clash against Switzerland in Dusseldorf, Southgate faces a tactical decision. According to reports, he might opt to deploy Shaw or switch to a back three with Bukayo Saka operating as a left wing-back.

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"I'm not sure who that would have been because the other options also had injury problems," Southgate said when he was asked if he could have named another left-back in the squad.

"And then we wouldn't have found a better left-footer to play than Trippier has played with his right. With Luke, we initially thought third group game [or] first knockout game. That then looked like it might accelerate a bit, but we probably ended up sort of in the territory we thought we might be and, given we had 26, we were happy to take that risk. I'm pleased we've got him here because he's unique in terms of the attributes he's got for the position that he plays.”

Henry, who has been out of action since tearing his ACL in September 2023, is gearing up for pre-season training and eagerly anticipates his return to play. He is driven by the aspiration to represent England at the World Cup in 2026 and reflecting on England's current left-back situation at Euro 2024, Henry believes he could have made a significant impact if given the chance.

“It’s been difficult watching England at Euro 2024 playing without an out-and-out left-back because I know I could do a job there," he told Brentford's official website.

"Luke Shaw has been struggling with an injury and we haven’t got any other left-footed full-backs in the squad. And, when I’ve watched them this summer, I just feel like I could fit so well into that team. It has been frustrating not being there but it’s also been great to watch, seeing them doing well and getting into the quarter-finals."

Southgate's decisions regarding the left-back position have sparked debate, particularly given the injury concerns surrounding key players. While Trippier has performed admirably out of position, the return of Shaw offers a boost for England's defensive options. As the Three Lions prepare for the crucial match against Switzerland, the manager's decisions regarding his defensive lineup will be closely scrutinised.