Shaw fit and ready to reward Southgate for Euro 2024 faith

Blankenhain (Germany) (AFP) – Luke Shaw says he is ready to repay the faith shown in him by England manager Gareth Southgate after overcoming injury problems to compete at Euro 2024.

Published on: 08/07/2024 – 18:23Amended: 07/08/2024 – 18:21

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Southgate’s decision to take Shaw as the only natural left-back in a 26-man squad has been criticised, with the Manchester United man sidelined for most of the tournament.

However, the 28-year-old made his first appearance for club or country since February as a last-minute substitute as England beat Switzerland on penalties to set up a semi-final against the Netherlands on Wednesday.

“The last four months have been really difficult,” Shaw said at a news conference Monday.

“At first, I was expected to come back much earlier, but I had quite a few setbacks.

“I’m here now and it was really nice to come the other night.”

Shaw believes he is fit to start, although Kieran Trippier is likely to retain his place on the left side of a defence that has conceded just three goals in five games.

Southgate was heavily criticised for his overly cautious approach as England stumbled to qualify for the last four despite an easy draw.

However, Shaw defended the England manager’s record of reaching three semi-finals in four major tournaments under his leadership.

Prior to Southgate’s appointment, the Three Lions had reached just three semi-finals in their history.

“He really took us to the next level, no manager has really been as successful as him,” Shaw added.

“I have a lot to say to him because he showed a lot of faith and trust in choosing me when he didn’t have to and for that I will always be grateful.

“Now I have to repay him for the trust he showed me.”

Shaw scored the opening goal in England’s first major Euro 2020 final for 55 years.

However, that joy was marred by the penalty shootout defeat to Italy and provided more motivation to do better this time around.

“I remember the feelings after that game were the worst I’ve ever felt, so of course the motivation is very high,” Shaw said of the final three years ago.

“We have world-class players all over the field and now is the moment, the crucial moment, where these players are going to step up to the next level.

“In these moments, that’s what you need and everyone is looking forward to another semi-final and trying to reach another final.”