England without six players as Southgate hails Bellingham

England will be missing six players for Monday’s Euro 2024 warm-up match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, with Kieran Trippier set to captain the team.

Manchester United’s Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are both dealing with injuries, and manager Gareth Southgate stated that it is “unlikely” the defensive duo will be fit for Friday’s friendly against Iceland.

John Stones is unavailable for the Bosnia game as he joined the squad late. Anthony Gordon is recovering from an injury, and Bukayo Saka is being rested.

Jude Bellingham will join the Three Lions squad on June 8 after helping Real Madrid win the Champions League on Saturday.

“All are progressing well – we’re pleased with the progress they’ve made,” said Southgate.

“John reported a bit later so hasn’t worked with us for the number of days, so it’s better for him to follow an individual programme.

“Bukayo’s fine and progressing well, but he’ll rest tomorrow and then he should be available for Friday.”

The two friendly matches, at St James’ Park and Wembley, are England’s final two games before Euro 2024 gets under way on 14 June.

Newcastle United full-back Trippier will lead the team on Monday at his home ground, and the 33-year-old said: “It’s going to be very special in the stadium I play in every week.

“I have to thank Gareth for giving me that trust. If I have the armband or not, if I play or not, I’m a leader.

“My son will be mascot so that’s even more special. It’ll be a very proud moment for me.”

England’s opening game at the European Championship will be against Serbia on 16 June.

Southgate spoke less than 24 hours after midfielder Jude Bellingham capped a remarkable first season with Real Madrid by lifting the Champions League trophy.

The 20-year-old assisted Vinicius Jr.’s second goal as the Spanish giants defeated Bellingham’s former club Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the final at Wembley.

Bellingham has scored 23 goals in all competitions, won the Spanish league title, and was voted La Liga’s player of the season.

“To join the biggest club in the world and perform the way he has throughout the season, it has been an incredible year,” said Southgate.

“You saw him with his family and they have to take enormous credit – he is as he comes across in his interviews.

“He’s authentic, that’s how he is every day, whoever he is interacting with. He’s got the humility and understanding.”