England and Scotland handed potential Euro 2024 boost as UEFA announce 26-man squads to be used

03/05/2024 19:07

UEFA have confirmed that teams will be allowed to select 26-man squads for Euro 2024 this summer.

The 24 competing countries were due to be only able to name a 23-man squad for the tournament, which will be played in Germany.

However, managers will now have more options at their disposal as UEFA will allow them to select an extra three players to travel.

“The UEFA Executive Committee has today decided to increase the maximum squad size of the teams participating in the upcoming UEFA EURO 2024 from the original quota of 23 to 26 players,” they said in a statement on Friday.

“The increase does not represent an obligation for the participating national associations.

“In accordance with the competition regulations, teams must provide UEFA with a list containing a minimum of 23 players and a maximum of 26 by the deadline of 7 June.”

The 2022 World Cup saw participating countries name 26-man squads due to the fact the tournament was played mid-season.

Euro 2020 also saw the same selection criteria, with the competition being played a year late due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The news will come as music to the ears of England boss Gareth Southgate amid their recent injury troubles.

During international breaks this season, the Three Lions have been without key stars including Reece James, Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier.

Fitness doubts have also been raised over players such as Bukayo Saka, Harry Maguire and John Stones.

Scotland boss Steve Clarke has seen Andy Robertson pick up injuries on international on two occasions this season, most recently in March.

However, UEFA’s latest announcement means competing teams are likely to have less injury and fitness issues during the tournament.

England first face Serbia at Euro 2024 on June 16, whereas Scotland will play hosts Germany on the opening night two days prior.