Heading into Euro 2024 this summer, England are in one of the healthiest positions they have been talent-wise in a long time, as head coach Gareth Southgate, has a plethora of talent to choose from.
Therefore, the odds for England to win Euro 2024 are considerably favourable, as they are anticipated to be the most likely team to win the tournament.
However, despite the depth of talent in the majority of positions, center-back is still an area in which England lacks star-studded quality.
John Stones
Perhaps the only centre-back option that is a guarantee to start if available is Manchester City ace, John Stones, whose ability to play out from defence is among the best in the world.
Stones’ defensive abilities have also come on leaps and bounds in recent years, alongside Ruben Dias at the heart of the ‘The Citizens’ backline, playing a large role in their treble-winning season.
Jarrad Branthwaite
The last international friendly break saw Everton prospect, Jarrad Branthwaite, earn his first call-up and cap for England at senior level. This has followed some impressive performances alongside James Tarkowski this season, helping his side record the fourth-best defensive record in the Premier League, behind only Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool.
Standing at 6’5, the 21-year-old is physically gifted — matching his brute strength with recovery pace, dominance in the air, and a cool head in possession, Branthwaite is a very strong option for England at the Euros.
Levi Colwill
Due to the severe lack of left-footed centre-backs and left-backs that England possess, Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill, could prove to be a serious option for England at the Euros.
With only one cap for England against Australia in October 2023, it still seems unlikely that Colwill will make a start this summer. However, due to the lack of football for Luke Shaw at left-back, Colwill would be unlucky not to find himself on the plane to Germany.
Harry Maguire
Despite coming under a barrage of criticism in the last few years, Harry Maguire has quietly been one of the best performers defensively for Manchester United amidst what has been a season to forget for the ‘Red Devils’.
Lapses in concentration and mobility can still be found within Maguire’s game, but aerially, the 31-year-old is a handful in both boxes and given the right protection, he is still a good option for England this euro and has plenty of experience alongside Stones at the back.
Kyle Walker
Lastly, another outside-the-box option for England in the summer is Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker, who has operated as a right-sided center-back for both club and country, though, more often than not, as part of a back three.
This versatility allows the potential for different tactical setups for England, as Walker could be used as a right center-back in a back three to facilitate the talent of Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, as of yet, there has been no evidence in the lead-up to the tournament that Southgate is considering this system.
If you do wish to bet on the Euros, England will begin their campaign on June 16 against Serbia.
By Jurgen NeustadtJurgen is a globetrotting adventurer with an unwavering thirst for travel. He craves the thrill of discovering new places, cultures, and flavors. Jurgen's life is a journey of exploration, where each destination offers a new chapter in his ongoing story of adventure and wonder.
