Why Kieran Trippier & Harry Maguire can lead England to Euro 2024 glory as Wayne Bridge makes bold prediction

England manager Gareth Southgate has been urged to play Trippier and Maguire at Euro 2024 as the Three Lions gear up for this summer's tournament in Germany. Betfred's Euro 2024 ambassador Bridge told GOAL that the two defenders could be vital to England's hopes of success because getting the right balance at the back will be crucial.

He told GOAL:“It could be the area that wins it. Harry Maguire, who could be on fire, could have a great tournament if Trippier plays at left-back, as there would be more protection for him. They could win the tournament with that partnership. You ask whether that area could cost them, but I think they could end up winning it.

"I’d play Luke Shaw if he was fit, but it would have been nice to have some back up. Kieran Trippier can play there, but it’s not natural for him. At right-back, he overlaps naturally but he’s not as comfortable doing that at left-back. If Trippier does start at left-back over Shaw, then that does allow England to play with one holding midfielder instead of two because Trippier would be getting forward less and that gives license to Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden to play higher up the field if they both complete the midfield three. That would be my way of looking at it.”

Southgate is currently preparing to cut his provisional squad down to 26 players. James Maddison has already been axed along with Liverpool duo Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah. Luke Shaw has been an injury doubt, as he's been out of action with Manchester United since February, but has reportedly stepped up his recovery and is expected to make the final squad. Shaw is the only natural left-back in the squad, with Trippier and Liverpool's Joe Gomez the other options to stand in for the United star if he is not ready to return.

England's final friendly before Euro 2024 is on Friday against Iceland at Wembley. The Three Lions are then due to open up their campaign against Serbia on Sunday, June 16.