Five Promising Centre-Backs England Should Consider for the September International Break

11 months ago

The upcoming September international break presents a crucial opportunity for Gareth Southgate to shape the future of England's central defensive lineup. With key players like Harry Maguire and John Stones facing challenges, Southgate must make strategic decisions to bolster the defense. Here's a closer look at the Five Promising Centre-Backs England Should Consider for the September International Break.

1. Levi Colwill

Club: Chelsea
England caps: 0

Levi Colwill has been making waves as a promising young talent. After an impressive loan spell with Brighton in the 2022/23 season, the 20-year-old has returned to Chelsea and quickly secured a prominent role in the first team. With an opportunity to showcase his skills, Colwill is poised to make his England debut in the coming months.

2. Lewis Dunk

Club: Brighton & Hove Albion
England caps: 1

Lewis Dunk's consistent performance for Brighton since their Premier League promotion in 2017 has caught the attention of many. His role in Brighton's dynamic attacking style has demonstrated his versatility. Having made one appearance for England back in 2018, Dunk's strong start to the current season makes his inclusion in the upcoming squad highly anticipated.

3. Marc Guehi

Club: Crystal Palace
England caps: 4

Marc Guehi has already established himself at the international level, having earned four caps under Southgate since his debut last year. With two successful seasons at Crystal Palace under his belt, the 23-year-old is poised to contribute significantly to England's defense. Guehi's consistency and development make him a valuable asset for the Three Lions.

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4. Chris Smalling

Club: Roma
England caps: 33

While English players abroad are gaining more recognition, Chris Smalling's experience stands out. Despite a lack of caps since 2017, his move to Roma has revitalized his career. Smalling's 33 international caps, coupled with his improved standing in Europe, make him a reliable option for Southgate as the team seeks stability and leadership in defense.

5. Fikayo Tomori

Club: AC Milan
England caps: 3

Fikayo Tomori's time has come to establish himself as a key figure in England's defensive lineup. At 25 years old, he's ready to make his mark on the international stage. Tomori's contributions to AC Milan's 2021/22 Serie A title win have been noteworthy, and his performances deserve greater recognition. With only three caps to his name, Southgate should consider Tomori's potential to become a regular squad member.

As Gareth Southgate contemplates his selections for the September international break, these five centre-backs offer a range of skills, experiences, and potential contributions to England's defense. With Maguire's situation and Stones' injury affecting the team's lineup, the time is ripe for new talents to step up and secure their places in the squad. The selection of the right central defensive pairing will play a crucial role in England's upcoming matches against Ukraine and Scotland.