Luke Shaw reveals when he will return from injury at Euro 2024
- Shaw yet to play for England this summer due to injury
- Man Utd left-back had been tipped to return in group stage
- England face Slovakia in round of 16
By Tom Gott
Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has revealed he plans to make his long-awaited return from injury in England's Euro 2024 round-of-16 clash with Slovakia on Sunday.
Manager Gareth Southgate admitted to taking a risk by including Shaw, who hasn't played since February because of a calf injury, but previously insisted he expected the 28-year-old to be available during the group stage.
United boss Erik ten Hag, however, insisted Shaw's comeback would not be possible until the knockout stages, and the Dutchman's prediction appears to have been on the money.
As he left the stadium following England's 0-0 draw with Slovenia, Shaw told reports he would be back for England's "next game".
Shaw has followed an individual training programme for the majority of the summer, with England medical staff reluctant to take any risks with the left-back.
The main dilemma for Southgate will be whether to throw Shaw straight back into the starting lineup after close to five months out on the sidelines.
Newcastle United's Kieran Trippier, a right-back by trade, has filled in for Shaw over on the left, but his natural weakness on his opposite side has contributed to England's lethargic attack so far at Euro 2024.
Fans have urged Southgate to make significant changes to his lineup for the knockout rounds. United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo caught the eye against Slovenia alongside Chelsea's Cole Palmer, while even Anthony Gordon made an impact in his late cameo.
The Three Lions find themselves on the favourable side of the bracket in the knockout stage, with France, Germany, Spain and Portugal all drawn on the opposite side and therefore only playable in the final.
England, however, must get through the likes of Slovakia, the Netherlands and Italy if they are to reach next month's showpiece finale.