Tyrick Mitchell, a teammate at Crystal Palace, may have been able to help England’s left-back dilemma at Euro 2024, according to Marc Guehi.
Luke Shaw of Manchester United went to Germany with the Three Lions team, although he was not well enough to play in any of England’s group matches.
Gareth Southgate’s starting lineup only included Shaw, a natural left-back, so right-back Kieran Trippier has been forced to fill in on the left, with varying degrees of effectiveness.
Trippier gave little going forward and found it difficult to connect with Phil Foden and England’s other attacking players, despite helping the team concede just one goal in the group stage—the best defensive record in the competition.
Shaw’s lack of playing time at the Euros makes it surprising if he started Sunday’s match against Slovakia in the round of 16.
Guehi acknowledges it is a “shame” that his Palace teammate Mitchell did not make the squad, and several pundits have suggested Kyle Walker or even Bukayo Saka should take Trippier’s place at left midfield.
Mitchell has made more than 100 Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace over the last three seasons, with his form for the Eagles earning him two caps for England, both coming in 2022.
When asked if he was shocked that Mitchell did not travel with him to Germany, considering England’s problems at left-back, Guehi said, “I would have loved T to be here.”
I felt that he had a fantastic season, putting up consistently strong performances. It’s unfortunate, of course, but if he continues like many England stars have, you will undoubtedly get your opportunity.
Along with winger Eberechi Eze, midfielder Adam Wharton, and goalkeeper Dean Henderson, Guehi is one of four Crystal Palace players in England’s Euro team.
In spite of his club teammates receiving little to no playing time in Germany, Guehi has won over supporters and commentators with three confident outings in the center of England’s defense.
When asked about the compliments, Guehi responded, “It is nice to hear. But I don’t think I’m the best player here.
There have been some really good performances by people. I am enjoying the experience and the tournament. I’m just really grateful.”
I also believe that I’m constantly improving and trying to get better at every aspect of my game, so hopefully more will come from me in the future.
Guehi picked out Napoli star Stanislav Lobotka as one player England need to be wary of as they prepare to face Slovakia for a place in the quarter-finals.
Slovakia amassed four points from three group games, beating Belgium in their tournament opener before losing to Ukraine and drawing with Group E winners Romania.
‘We haven’t done any team analysis on them yet but we all watch the games and know they are a good side,’ Guehi said. ‘They have some really good players, Lobotka being one.
‘I think it’s going to be another tough opponent, tough challenge and we need to be ready to match what they bring.’
Guehi also insisted England were not on the ‘easier’ side of the draw despite the fact they will avoid France, Germany, Spain and Portugal if they reach the July 14 final.
‘Everyone has seen from results in the tournament so far that there’s no real favourable side,’ said the 23-year-old, who has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.
‘Every opponent is tough to play against. We just need to remain calm. We put pressure on ourselves, but it’s a very calm and focused environment.’