Gareth Southgate risks being forced into England formation change after injury crisis

GARETH SOUTHGATE has been hit with a selection dilemma ahead of England’s friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.

The Three Lions have just four matches until their Euro 2024 campaign gets underway against Serbia on June 16.

PA

Gareth Southgate has an injury crisis to contend with[/caption]

Clashes against Brazil on March 23 and Belgium three days later give Southgate a chance to prepare his squad.

But an injury crisis at left-back has thrown a huge spanner in the works.

Luke Shaw is set to be sidelined for several months with a leg injury and could miss the Euros.

Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell has been sent to see a specialist after suffering a knee injury.

Kieran Trippier has previously filled in at left-back but a calf issue will rule him out until after the international break.

Additionally, left-sided defender Levi Colwill is also in rehabilitation after an injury.

It leaves Southgate with a major headache and could force him into a formation change.

The boss has previously used a back three and could revert to the setup due to the lack of options.

BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS

Southgate could change formation in the upcoming friendlies

Rico Lewis could fill in at left-back

Rico Lewis earned one cap at left-back in a 1-1 draw with North Macedonia back in November and the Manchester City teenager could be England’s solution.

Liverpool star Joe Gomez‘s versatility could also hand Southgate an alternative.

He has 11 caps to his name with his last coming in October 2020.

Getty

Rico Lewis could add to his one cap at left-back[/caption]

Reuters

Joe Gomez will be hoping for a recall[/caption]