In a surprising turn of events, England’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign has hit a minor bump in the road as forward Jarrod Bowen and Newcastle defender Kieran Trippier have been ruled out of the crucial matchup against North Macedonia. Bowen’s absence comes as a result of a minor injury, while Trippier is unavailable due to a personal issue.
Gareth Southgate, the manager of the English national team, shed light on the situation, emphasizing the caution taken in Bowen’s case. He stated, “We didn’t really have enough time to assess it fully and make an accurate decision, so we felt better to leave him in England. We wouldn’t take a risk.” With the Euro 2024 finals on the horizon, Southgate and his coaching staff are undoubtedly keen on ensuring the squad’s fitness and well-being.
England, having already secured their place in the finals as Group C winners, might be expected to coast through their final qualifier. However, the lackluster performance in Friday’s 2-0 home victory against Malta has raised concerns. Southgate has made it clear that performance is the top priority, and the team is eager to bounce back to their usual standards of excellence. “We have to get back to what we’re good at,” Southgate affirmed, acknowledging that the Friday match fell short of their established benchmark.
The Tose Proeski Arena in Skopje is set to host the rematch against North Macedonia, a team that faced a humiliating 7-0 defeat when they encountered England in a qualifier at Old Trafford in June. Despite their inability to qualify, the North Macedonian fans have shown unwavering support, with the stadium being sold out for the event. Southgate recognizes the pride and passion of the opponents, stating, “We play a team who, although they can’t qualify, have tremendous pride, and they’ll be wounded by what happened in Manchester.” He emphasized the need for England to be prepared for a vibrant atmosphere with a full crowd.
Amidst the challenges and uncertainties, England midfielder Declan Rice remains steadfast in his belief in the team’s capabilities. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Rice dismissed any negativity directed towards the team, asserting, “I think the level of the team now is ridiculously high. People can say whatever they want.” He cited impressive performances against Italy and Ukraine, demonstrating the team’s strength and unity. With confidence in their abilities and a strong sense of camaraderie fostered by manager Gareth Southgate, England aims to continue their pursuit of achieving special things on the international stage.
As England faces North Macedonia in the final Euro 2024 qualifier without Bowen and Trippier, the team’s resilience and determination will be put to the test. The fans eagerly await a spirited performance from the Three Lions as they prepare for the upcoming finals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about England Euro 2024 Qualifier
Q: Why is Jarrod Bowen missing the Euro 2024 qualifier against North Macedonia?
A: Jarrod Bowen is unavailable for the match due to a minor injury. The England team decided not to risk his fitness by allowing more time for a proper assessment.
Q: Why is Kieran Trippier not playing in the game against North Macedonia?
A: Kieran Trippier will miss the match due to a personal issue that makes him unavailable for the game.
Q: Has England already secured their place in the Euro 2024 finals?
A: Yes, England has already sealed their place in the Euro 2024 finals as Group C winners.
Q: What is Gareth Southgate’s primary focus for the upcoming qualifier?
A: Gareth Southgate’s primary focus is on the team’s performance. He emphasized that reaching and maintaining a high standard of play is crucial for the squad.
Q: What was the result when England last played North Macedonia in a qualifier?
A: When England last played North Macedonia in a qualifier at Old Trafford in June, England won convincingly with a score of 7-0.
Q: How is the atmosphere expected to be for the rematch against North Macedonia?
A: Despite not being able to qualify, North Macedonian fans have shown tremendous pride, and the Tose Proeski Arena in Skopje is sold out for the rematch. Gareth Southgate anticipates a vibrant atmosphere with a full crowd.
Q: What is Declan Rice’s perspective on the team’s performance and the negativity surrounding it?
A: Declan Rice is confident in the team’s abilities, citing high-level performances against Italy and Ukraine. He dismisses negativity, emphasizing the team’s mental and physical preparedness under manager Gareth Southgate.
More about England Euro 2024 Qualifier
- England’s Jarrod Bowen ruled out of Euro 2024 qualifier (BBC Sport)
- Kieran Trippier’s absence due to personal issue (Sports News Website)
- England secures place in Euro 2024 finals (Sporting News)
- Gareth Southgate emphasizes performance (Football Analysis)
- Previous England vs. North Macedonia qualifier result (Sporting Events Archive)
- Expectations for atmosphere in the rematch (Sports Fans Forum)
- Declan Rice’s perspective on the team’s performance (Radio Sportstalk)
5 comments
declan rice so positive, team strong, no negativ vibes here!
jarrod bowen missin d game cuz injury, england gotta play w/o him, not gud
wow, england bashed north macedonia 7-0 b4, rematch gonna b intense!
gareth southgate says performance matter most, england got high standard to meet
kieran trippier not there too, personal stuff, england needs all deir players