Marc Guehi names player who could have solved England's biggest problem at Euro 2024

Marc Guehi has been one of England’s better players at Euro 2024 (Picture: YouTube)

Marc Guehi has suggested Crystal Palace team-mate Tyrick Mitchell could have solved England’s left-back problem at Euro 2024.

Manchester United’s Luke Shaw travelled to Germany with the Three Lions squad but was not fit enough to feature in any of England’s group games.

As Shaw was the only natural left-back selected in Gareth Southgate’s squad, right-back Kieran Trippier has had to fill in on the left to mixed success.

While Trippier helped England concede just one goal in the group stage – the best defensive record in the tournament – he offered little going forward and struggled to link up with Phil Foden and England’s other attacking players.

Given Shaw is yet to get any minutes at the Euros, it would be a surprise if he started Sunday’s last-16 clash against Slovakia.

Several pundits have suggested Kyle Walker – or even Bukayo Saka – should replace Trippier at left-back and Guehi admits it is a ‘shame’ that his Palace team-mate Mitchell did not make the squad.

Mitchell has made more than 100 Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace over the last three seasons, with his form for the Eagles earning him two caps for England, both coming in 2022.

Tyrick Mitchell in action for Crystal Palace (Picture: Getty)

Asked whether he was surprised, given England’s issues at left-back, that he was not joined in Germany by Mitchell, Guehi said: ‘I would’ve loved T to be here.

‘I thought he had an amazing season, very consistent in his performances. Obviously it’s a shame but I’m sure if he carries on, as we’ve seen with so many England players, you’re definitely able to get your chance.’

Guehi is one of four Crystal Palace players in England’s Euros squad along with goalkeeper Dean Henderson, midfielder Adam Wharton and winger Eberechi Eze.

Luke Shaw is yet to get any minutes at the Euros (Picture: Getty)

His club team-mates have been given little to no minutes out in Germany but Guehi has impressed fans and pundits with three assured performances in the heart of England’s defence.

Asked about the praise he has received, Guehi said: ‘It is nice to hear. But I don’t think I’m the best player here.

‘There have been some really good performances by people. I am enjoying the experience and the tournament. I’m just really grateful.

‘I think I’m continuously developing everything and trying to get better in every part of my game. Hopefully in the future there are more bits to come from myself.’

Guehi picked out Napoli star Stanislav Lobotka as one player England need to be wary of as they prepare to face Slovakia for a place in the quarter-finals.

Slovakia amassed four points from three group games, beating Belgium in their tournament opener before losing to Ukraine and drawing with Group E winners Romania.

‘We haven’t done any team analysis on them yet but we all watch the games and know they are a good side,’ Guehi said. ‘They have some really good players, Lobotka being one.

‘I think it’s going to be another tough opponent, tough challenge and we need to be ready to match what they bring.’

Guehi also insisted England were not on the ‘easier’ side of the draw despite the fact they will avoid France, Germany, Spain and Portugal if they reach the July 14 final.

‘Everyone has seen from results in the tournament so far that there’s no real favourable side,’ said the 23-year-old, who has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.

‘Every opponent is tough to play against. We just need to remain calm. We put pressure on ourselves, but it’s a very calm and focused environment.’

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