It has been announced by UEFA that the UK and Ireland will host the men’s Euros in 2028, and young players around Europe will be hoping to feature in the competition. England have numerous prospects in their ranks who will feel that they could break into Gareth Southgate’s side plans, or those of his successor, before the tournament – especially given that several of the ‘old guard’ are likely to have hung up their boots by then. Express Sport takes a look at seven players who have not featured for England before but will be eyeing a spot in the Three Lions’ squad at the home tournament in 2028…
Cole Palmer
Following his £45million move from Manchester City over the summer, Palmer has hit the ground running at Chelsea. The versatile playmaker has injected creativity into Mauricio Pochettino’s side and showcased that he is equally effective playing as a No 10 as he is on the right wing. If Palmer can continue progressing as he is, Southgate will find him hard to ignore in the near future.
Rico Lewis
After his impressive performances at right-back and as part of City’s double pivot, some have already begun questioning how Lewis has not been selected over his teammate Kalvin Phillips for England in recent months. The 18-year-old possesses speed, know-how and the technical ability to thrive in numerous roles for the Three Lions and will prove to be a useful asset for many years to come.
Harvey Elliott
Potentially unfortunate not to have a senior appearance to his name already, Liverpool academy graduate Elliott is destined for a future in Southgate’s plans. The 20-year-old can play in numerous midfield roles as well as on the right wing, and his willingness to work hard off of the ball could make him more likely to feature as part of England’s three-man midfield alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
Jacob Ramsey
Aston Villa star Ramsey has already made over 100 senior appearances at club level, and it is only a matter of time before he breaks into England’s first-team. The 22-year-old can play on either flank as well as in midfield, making him the ideal candidate for international football where squads rely on versatility to provide cover in numerous roles.
Jarrad Branthwaite
Everton rewarded Branthwaite for his impressive start to the season with a bumper new contract recently, and the defender will now have his heart set on breaking into Southgate’s team as well. England’s defence has been a cause for concern over the past few years, with questions raised about Harry Maguire especially, and Branthwaite may believe that there is an opportunity for him in the pipeline if he can continue to perform in the Premier League.
Morgan Gibbs-White
Eyebrows were raised when Nottingham Forest forked out £42.5m on Gibbs-White, but he continues to justify his price tag under Steve Cooper. The ex-Wolves star has thrived playing behind a traditional No. 9 at the City Ground but has proven previously that he is capable of leading the line and could be an interesting alternative option to Harry Kane in the final third for England going forward.
Tino Livramento
Kieran Trippier, one of Southgate’s most reliable players, will turn 38 in 2028 – and his successor may already lie within the Newcastle ranks. Livramento can play on both sides of defence and has represented England at all youth levels, with his pace and energy at both ends of the pitch making him one of the most exciting fullback options for England in the future.
