Gareth Southgate is considering a trio of uncapped midfielders for next month’s England squad, with Manchester United teenager Kobbie Mainoo, Everton’s James Garner and Fulham’s Harrison Reed in contention for a place.
Doubts over Kalvin Phillips’ form and fitness in the build-up to Euro 2024 has seen Southgate assess alternatives in a defensive midfield role.
The Three Lions lack competition and cover for Declan Rice in an anchor position at the base of the midfield and Southgate could look to experiment in March’s friendlies with Brazil and Belgium.
Mainoo appears the outstanding candidate after a brilliant breakthrough at Manchester United. The 18-year-old has featured just 11 times in the Premier League to date but has been an integral part in an improved run of results for Erik ten Hag’s team, and was voted as Manchester United’s Player of the Month for January.
Everton midfielder James Garner is also an option after cementing his place in Sean Dyche’s side this season. The 22-year-old formed part of the England u-21 side that won the European Championship last summer and was named in the Team of the Tournament for his performances.
According to the Daily Mail, Reed is also on the radar after a strong season at Fulham. The 29-year-old is a more experienced option for England, though has not represented the national team since u-20 level.
March’s friendly fixtures will represent Southgate’s last chance to experiment with his plans ahead of this summer’s major tournament in Germany. England begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on June 16.
