Joe Cole leaves two shock names out of his predicted England squad for Euro 2024… as former Three Lions star claims Gareth Southgate needs to bring the right type of ‘character’

Joe Cole has suggested two big stars could miss out on places in the England squad for this summer’s European Championships.

Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate will name a provisional squad just days after the current season ends, with debate still ongoing over whether there will be 26 or 23 players in the squads for the tournament.

He will then trim his side, with a number of key decisions still to be made, particularly in the forward areas.

And that’s where Cole turned to when he referenced two big names he believes should miss out on a spot on the plane to Germany for this summer’s Championships.

Speaking to promote the release of official Topps trading cards and stickers, Cole gave predictions to his team, with some suggestions that are sure to turn some heads.

Your browser does not support iframes.

“It sounds ridiculous, but the character of the players comes into play and what it means to them,” Cole began. “I am a big admirer of Marcus Rashford, he has reached great heights in his career, but for no understandable reason, he will embark on a career where people will start to question him again.

‘To me, you only take Marcus if you’re going to start him. He’s now at the age where I think that’s what he thinks and I wouldn’t put him ahead of (Phil) Foden, (Harry) Kane or (Bukayo) Saka.

“This is not a defamation of his character and ability, but at this point in his life and situation at United, I think he could be the one left out. Also with Jack Grealish, I love him, but how can you take him ahead from someone who plays week in and week out like (James) Maddison or (Jarrod) Bowen who is doing it and who is fit?

Grealish missed the last England squad due to injury, with the likes of Bowen and Anthony Gordon pushing their cases for inclusion, while Cole Palmer remains an option.

Meanwhile, Rashford played just 15 minutes between the matches against Brazil and Belgium, and both players’ inclusion in the squad is far from certain.

Another debate over the squad is who will be Harry Kane’s back-up, with Southgate likely to only pick one extra striker due to squad size limitations.

Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins battle it out for inclusion, with Toney scoring against Brazil. Watkins, however, has scored 22 goals this season.

“It’s really difficult and I feel like one of them is going to be really disappointed and rightfully so, they’re going to feel hurt,” Cole added. ‘Toney took advantage of his opportunity, not only with his penalty but also with the way he played. Watkins had a tougher task against Brazil.

“I would choose Toney, he has the mentality and something in him that tells me he can play for England. He is not going to panic about a penalty, he is the calmest man in the world and that also influences.”