Henderson, Maguire, Phillips IN. James Ward Prowse OUT!

The recent squad selection for the England national football team has left fans and pundits scratching their heads. As the team prepares for a crucial EURO qualifier match against Italy, there are concerns about the choices made by manager Gareth Southgate. While loyalty to certain players is commendable, it's essential to strike a balance between consistency and the need for fresh faces, especially when facing tough opponents like Italy.

One of the most noteworthy inclusions in the squad is Harry Maguire, who has been recalled despite recent criticisms of his form. The same goes for Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips, both of whom have faced questions about their readiness for the upcoming challenge. While loyalty to established players is understandable, some argue that there may be a point where it becomes excessive.

The match against Italy is undoubtedly one of the toughest in the group, and it's the second leg of their encounter. Playing at home in Wembley, England should have an advantage, but as any football enthusiast knows, these high-stakes clashes are far from easy. The pressure is on, and experimentation may not be the right course of action at this moment.

Injuries have certainly played a role in squad selection, but the focus remains on the choices made. Manager Southgate's willingness to drop players like Mason Mount for poor form has raised eyebrows, especially when compared to his reluctance to do the same for Kalvin Phillips or Harry Maguire. The omission of James Ward-Prowse, who has been statistically one of the Premier League's best midfielders this season, is particularly baffling.

Ward-Prowse's contributions to his club, West Ham, cannot be overstated. With eight goal involvements in eight games, he has been a driving force in their success. In contrast, Kalvin Phillips has had limited appearances for both club and country, making the omission all the more perplexing.

The absence of James Ward-Prowse also raises questions about set pieces, which are crucial in major tournaments. His ability to deliver a precise ball from set pieces is well-documented, making him a valuable asset in such situations. While he may not need to start, having his expertise in the squad could prove beneficial.

One cannot help but wonder if there's history between Ward-Prowse and Southgate that influences the selection. Despite his impressive performances, Ward-Prowse has rarely received national team call-ups, even during his time at Southampton. This snub seems especially unjust considering his consistent contributions at West Ham.

While new faces like Jared Bowen have been called up due to their outstanding performances, the persistence of players like Marcus Rashford in the squad raises questions. The squad selection process is always a subject of debate, but as England prepares for a pivotal match against Italy, the need for a balanced and strategic approach is more crucial than ever. Only time will tell if Southgate's choices will pay off in this highly-anticipated EURO qualifier.

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