Jordan Henderson Excluded from England’s Euro 2024 Squad

Jordan Henderson will not be part of England’s provisional Euro 2024 squad, with his former Liverpool teammate Curtis Jones set to replace him.

Henderson, who has been a regular for over a decade, now faces uncertainty about his future with the national team as Gareth Southgate explores other options.

Henderson’s Recent Transfers and Career Impact

Henderson’s exclusion follows his controversial move to Al-Ettifaq last summer, which lasted only five months before he transferred to Ajax in January.

Despite hopes that the move to Ajax would bolster his chances for the Euro 2024 squad, it appears he will be left out when the expanded squad is announced this afternoon.

New Faces in the Squad

Curtis Jones, who was in contention for the last squad in March before an injury, is set to benefit from Henderson’s absence.

This inclusion marks the verge of his first senior cap. Other notable inclusions are Jarell Quansah and Adam Wharton, with Quansah making the cut after an impressive season with Liverpool.

Full Provisional Squad

Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, James Trafford

Defenders: Jarrad Branthwaite, Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Harry Maguire, Jarell Quansah, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker

Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Gallagher, Curtis Jones, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton

Forwards: Jude Bellingham, Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, James Maddison, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins

Notable Absentees

Henderson is among several high-profile absentees, including Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling, Reece James, Ben Chilwell, James Ward-Prowse, Nick Pope, Dominic Solanke, Levi Colwill, and Harvey Elliott.

Rashford, despite a strong World Cup showing, is left out after a disappointing season at Manchester United, scoring only eight goals compared to 30 the previous season.

Injury Concerns and Defensive Challenges

England faces an injury crisis in defense, particularly at left-back, with both Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell struggling for fitness.

Shaw, despite not playing for Manchester United since February, makes the squad, whereas Chilwell and Reece James are excluded.

Crystal Palace players Eberechi Eze, Adam Wharton, Marc Guehi, and Dean Henderson are included after their excellent finish to the Premier League season.

Southgate’s Selection Strategy

Despite not playing since April, Harry Maguire is included, with a chance to feature in the FA Cup final and for England’s opening game against Serbia.

Ivan Toney also makes the squad despite a limited goal return post-suspension. Southgate’s squad will be trimmed to 26 players before the tournament begins.

Sterling and Henderson’s Exclusion

Raheem Sterling’s exclusion, while not surprising given his post-World Cup absence, and Henderson’s omission are significant.

This marks the first major tournament since the 2010 World Cup without either player.

Henderson’s place had been almost guaranteed under Southgate, but his move to the Saudi Pro League and subsequent short stint at Ajax impacted his selection.

Henderson’s Recent Performances and Fan Reaction

Henderson, who played 12 times for Ajax, was visited by Southgate for his debut in February.

Despite being booed by England fans after moving to Saudi Arabia, Southgate defended him, stating player selection is based on performance rather than popularity.

Henderson had hoped to continue contributing to the national team, emphasizing his desire to play as long as possible.

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