Does Southgate Have Favourites? 🤔 Cascarino And Sawyer React To England's Squad Announcement!

As the Three Lions prepare to take on Italy in Naples this Thursday and subsequently face Ukraine at the grand Wembley, Gareth Southgate's selections for the England squad have sparked excitement and controversy. Some familiar faces have returned, while others have been overlooked, leaving football enthusiasts buzzing with thoughts and opinions.

The Reappearance of Ivan Tony: A Deserved Inclusion

One of the most remarkable aspects of this squad announcement has been the inclusion of Ivan Tony. The forward missed out on the World Cup squad but has earned his place through exceptional performances. Tony's consistent brilliance for Brentford has not gone unnoticed. As the second-highest English scorer in the Premier League, he's proving himself week in and week out. His incredible form and unwavering commitment make him a formidable rival to Harry Kane, undoubtedly deserving his place in the squad.

However, what sets Tony's selection apart is the betting charge looming over him. Some argue that a player with pending charges should not be part of the England squad. But the truth is, he has not been found guilty yet. Admitting to some charges while contesting others makes it unclear how this situation will resolve. As of now, he's allowed to play because we can't predict the length of a potential ban. Tony's contributions on the pitch are undeniable, and his inclusion is well-deserved.

Ivan Tony's Remarkable Journey

Ivan Tony's journey from lower-league football to the England squad is a testament to his determination and talent. He spent a significant amount of time in the lower leagues, making waves with his goal-scoring prowess. It's surprising that it took so long for higher-level clubs to recognize his potential. Tony's gradual ascent to prominence underscores the importance of finding the right fit at the right time. The football world is better for having him in it, and it's intriguing to see how his career continues to evolve.

Southgate's Depth Dilemma: Unusual Omissions

Gareth Southgate's squad selection has left fans scratching their heads. Southgate mentioned the need to pick the best players, even if they aren't playing regularly for their clubs. While this principle has its merits, some exclusions have left fans puzzled.

One of the notable omissions is Fikayo Tomori. The defender has been earning praise in Serie A and seems to be in the form of his life. Yet, he's once again been overlooked. The decision remains unexplained, leaving fans questioning why a player in such great form hasn't been given an opportunity.

James Ward-Prowse, who has performed well for Southampton, is another player left out. Connor Coady, who played a role in the World Cup, didn't make the cut either. There are certainly some tough calls, but perhaps it's a signal that Southgate is looking for specific attributes and skills in his squad members.

Ben White's absence raises eyebrows, too. Something behind the scenes appears to have influenced this decision, as he had impressed with his performances before the squad announcement.

Notable Omissions: Raheem Sterling, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Ollie Watkins

Injuries have prevented Raheem Sterling from being part of this squad, and Trent Alexander-Arnold's performances have not met Southgate's defensive expectations. Trent's offensive prowess is admirable, but Southgate is prioritizing a more defensively solid approach. However, Trent's capabilities remain unquestionable, and he'll undoubtedly be a key figure in future squads.

The omission of Ollie Watkins has raised questions, considering his impressive form for Aston Villa. With a lack of forward options, his absence stands out. Watkins' return to the squad in the future seems likely, given his consistently strong performances.

In conclusion, Southgate's squad selection has undoubtedly stirred excitement and debate. It's a testament to the depth of talent in English football that even omissions spark discussions. Whether these selections prove to be masterstrokes or miscalculations, they set the stage for a thrilling journey as England prepares for the upcoming challenges. As fans, we eagerly anticipate the Three Lions' performances and hope to witness the emergence of new stars on the international stage.