Gareth Southgate believes Luke Shaw will bring “balance” to England as they take on Spain in the final of Euro 2024.
Shaw is making his first start for club or country since February, when he suffered the hamstring injury which ruled him out of the end of Manchester United’s season.
Kieran Trippier has deputised in Shaw’s absence during the tournament, but Trippier’s preference to use right foot meant he offered minimal threat advancing down the left flank.
After making substitute appearances in the quarter-final and semi-final wins over Switzerland and Netherlands, Shaw has been thrown into the starting XI for the final, where he will be up against 17-year-old wonderkid Lamine Yamal.
“He’s been on the road to coming back,” said Southgate. “We managed his minutes as well as we could and he gives us balance on the left side. Kieran has been an incredible soldier for us. Yes, no question [Shaw gives Spain a problem].
“He’s an experienced player... he’s ready to play.”
England have gradually improved through the tournament, pulling off late comebacks, but they will have to up their game to beat Spain.
“We’ve got to use the ball well today. Spain keep possession well, but so do we and we’ve got a goal threat. Moving the ball well through their press is key to the game. We’ve found ways to win. Any team that scores late goals is a good side. It breeds confidence in the group.
“We’re here to give them the best night of their lives. We know what it means to everybody at home. It’s a privilege and let’s make it count.”
Spain, meanwhile, showed two changes from their own 2-1 semi-final victory over France as Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand came back into the defence.
