Kieran Trippier retained his first-team spot in England’s semi-final game against Netherlands. Luke Shaw is the only naturally left-footed full-back in the current England setup but he was unavailable throughout the tournament as several setbacks in recovery delayed his involvement.
Trippier stepped up in Shaw’s absence and took over the left-back role for the Three Lions in each and every game in the Euros. But the Newcastle defender was substituted at the break against Netherlands with Luke Shaw coming on.
Latest update on Kieran Trippier’s injury
England has reached the Euro 2024 finals by defeating Netherlands 2-1 with an Ollie Watkins late goal. But England have struggled for balance after Trippier decided to take the left-back role in this tournament.
Trippier who has started all games for England in this tournament was replaced by Luke Shaw in their win over the Dutch. The Newcastle defender was seen liming and was taken off at half-time.
Manager Gareth Southgate explained that his substitution was a precaution as Trippier manages a groin injury and didn’t want to take a chance.
“We didn’t want to take any chances,” Southgate said. “We had it in our minds bringing Luke into the game at some point and still deciding how long for.
“But we thought finish with the balance was better than starting it. We’ll see how Tripps is, but he has been a soldier.
“The level of performance on the wrong side of the pitch has been phenomenal.”
Also Read: Netherlands vs England Player Ratings: Xavi Simons 8; Kobbie Mainoo 7