Kieran Trippier might not be able to play for England in their upcoming Euro 2024 match against Slovakia this Sunday after suffering an injury in Training. Coach Gareth Southgate is considering Ezri Konsa as a replacement.
Trippier has been struggling on the left side during England's group games against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia, as it's not his usual position. His preference to use his right foot has made the team a bit unbalanced, but he's been doing his best to help out, especially since Luke Shaw, the team's only natural left-back, has been out due to injury.
Shaw himself hasn't played in any of England's matches so far in Euro 2024 because of a hamstring injury he's been recovering from since February. Although, there's a chance he might play some role on Sunday, but he probably won't be fit enough to start, which means Trippier might have to continue in the left-back role if he is passed fit.
However, according to Sky Sports News, Trippier might not be able to play against Slovakia due to a calf problem that has been bothering him since the end of the Premier League season.
He missed training on Thursday and Friday to focus on his own recovery program. England is hopeful he'll recover in time for the game in Gelsenkirchen, but it'll depend on how he feels on Saturday.
If Trippier isn't fit, Gareth Southgate has a few options. He could move Kyle Walker to left-back and bring Trent Alexander-Arnold in on the right side of defense. Another possibility is selecting Liverpool's Joe Gomez, who played as a left-back several times last season.
However, it seems likely that Southgate will make a surprising choice and opt for Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa. The 26-year-old, with four international caps, could make his tournament debut if Trippier can't play.
There's speculation that Konsa might fill in at left-back, which would be unconventional for him. Alternatively, he could play his usual role at right-back, with Walker shifting to the left side.
