Germany camp ‘can’t believe’ England star made Euro 2024 squad over Jack Grealish as Gareth Southgate’s team prepares for opener

The Germany squad were relieved to hear that the Manchester City winger had been left at home ahead of the tournament. According to The Independent, Die Mannschaft were equally shocked to hear that Eberechi Eze was favoured ahead of Grealish. German players reportedly believe Grealish "provokes fear in opposition when he runs at them", and Eze would not do the same.

The Germany squad may be surprised, but Eze's form at the back-end of last season justifies his inclusion over Grealish. The Crystal Palace midfielder shone under Oliver Glasner and was integral to the Eagles' rapid rise up the league table. In 27 appearances, Eze scored 11 goals and registered four assists. This vastly outshines Grealish who, in 20 appearances, scored just three goals and got one assist.

No club have more players in the England squad than Crystal Palace's four. The Eagles are represented by Eze, Dean Henderson, Adam Wharton and Marc Guehi, with the latter pair strong contenders to start in England's opening game at Euro 2024.

After a torrid 1-0 defeat to Iceland in their final warm-up game, Gareth Southgate will now be plotting his starting 11 for the tournament. England kick off their campaign against Serbia on next Sunday (16 June) and Eze will be desperate for a chance to prove his German critics wrong.