Gareth Southgate makes shock Luke Shaw decision for Euro 2024 final

Luke Shaw is expected to start for England in Sunday's Euro 2024 final against Spain.

The Manchester United left-back has come off the bench in each of England's last two outings after overcoming an injury which had kept him sidelined since February.

He had been expected to remain on the bench for Sunday's Euro 2024 finale, but numerous reports have now revealed that Shaw will make his first start of the tournament against Spain in place of Kieran Trippier.

Trippier, who has started every game so far on the left of England's defence, picked up a knock against the Netherlands in the semi-final.

Manager Gareth Southgate had insisted Trippier would be fit to play against Spain but has now opted to turn to Shaw, who scored in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.

According to The Telegraph, Southgate believes Shaw's natural comfort on the left side of the field could be crucial to England's hopes of winning the trophy.

Shaw will have the unenviable task of butting heads with Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, who has been among the top performers at this summer's tournament.

Southgate must now decide whether to return to his original four-man defence or continue with the 3-4-2-1 setup which has brought success in the knockout stages for England.

United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe sent a playful message to Shaw in the build-up to the game, urging the left-back to take care of his hamstrings after so long on the sidelines.

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