Luke Shaw expressed his readiness to repay England manager Gareth Southgate's faith in him after overcoming injury setbacks to feature in Euro 2024.
Southgate's decision to include Shaw as the sole natural left-back in the 26-man squad has faced criticism, with the Manchester United player sidelined for most of the tournament. However, the 28-year-old made his first appearance since February as a late substitute in England's penalty shootout victory over Switzerland, setting up a semi-final clash with the Netherlands on Wednesday.
Reflecting on his recovery, Shaw stated, "The last four months have been really tough. Initially, I expected to return sooner, but faced several setbacks. I'm here now, and it was great to get on the pitch the other night."
Shaw believes he is fit to start, although Kieran Trippier is expected to retain his place on the left side of a defense that has conceded just three goals in five games.
Despite criticism of England's cautious approach and a perceived favorable draw leading to their semi-final berth, Shaw defended Southgate's tenure, highlighting the manager's achievement in guiding England to three semi-finals in four major tournaments. Before Southgate took charge, England had reached just three semi-finals in their history.
"He's taken us to the next level," Shaw remarked. "No manager has been as successful as him. I owe him a lot for his faith and trust in selecting me when he didn't have to, and for that, I'll always be grateful. Now, I aim to repay that faith."
Shaw, who scored England's opening goal in their first major final in 55 years at Euro 2020, expressed motivation to improve on that experience. "The feelings after that match were the worst I've ever felt," he recalled. "That loss drives me. We have world-class players ready to step up in crucial moments."
As England prepares for another semi-final, Shaw emphasized the team's determination to reach the final once more.
