Kalvin Phillips has been removed from the England squad, while Jarrad Branthwaite and Anthony Gordon from Everton have received their first call-ups.

“I’d be very concerned with that midfield,” expressed Wayne Rooney, as the debate surrounding England’s Euro XI continues to intensify. The latest squad announcement by Gareth Southgate has left Kalvin Phillips on the sidelines, while newcomers Jarrad Branthwaite and Anthony Gordon have received their first call-ups.

Phillips, who has been struggling to find his form since joining West Ham on loan from Manchester City, was hoping to gain more playing time after limited opportunities with Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning side. Despite his club struggles, Southgate had consistently selected Phillips until now.

England will be hosting two friendlies at Wembley later this month, with Brazil and Belgium set to visit. These matches serve as the final chance for players to impress at the international level before the tournament in Germany.

Returning from a ban for breaking betting rules, Brentford striker Ivan Toney has earned his place back in the squad. His club teammate, Jarrod Bowen, has also been included after an impressive season, scoring 17 goals in all competitions, including a hat-trick against Toney’s side.

Branthwaite’s call-up comes after a breakthrough season with Sean Dyche’s struggling Burnley, while Liverpool’s Joe Gomez returns to the squad after a four-year absence. Despite missing Manchester United’s recent matches due to a muscle problem, Harry Maguire has been selected. Brighton’s Lewis Dunk and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa have also retained their spots in the defensive lineup.

Injuries have ruled out several regulars, including Kieran Trippier, Reece James, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, even with their absence, there is still no place for in-form Arsenal defender Ben White, who signed a new contract today. Southgate’s decision to exclude White since the 2022 World Cup squad remains unexplained.

Despite recent injuries and speculation linking him with Scotland, Gordon has secured his place in the squad. Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer has also retained his spot, showcasing his impressive performances despite his team’s struggles in recent months.

With squad sizes returning to the usual 23 for this summer’s European Championship, attackers have a chance to stake their claim for a place, particularly as an understudy for Harry Kane. Ollie Watkins, the leading English goalscorer in the Premier League this season with 16 goals for Aston Villa, will be competing with Toney for that role.

As the debate rages on, England’s midfield remains a topic of concern for many. With the Euros fast approaching, Southgate’s final selection will undoubtedly be scrutinized by fans and pundits alike.