Trippier Injury Casts Doubt Over England’s Euro 2024 Round of 16 Hopes England’s participation in the round of 16 of Euro 2024 has been thrown into doubt after Kieran Trippier suffered an injury in training. The Three Lions left-back is now likely to miss the crunch match against Slovakia. Trippier, who has been a key figure for Gareth Southgate’s side throughout the tournament, sustained a foot problem during Tuesday’s session. The 34-year-old underwent an MRI scan, which confirmed the extent of his injury. With Trippier ruled out, England boss Southgate is likely to hand a starting berth to Ezri Konsa. The Aston Villa defender has performed admirably in Trippier’s absence in the past and will be eager to impress once again. Konsa’s inclusion in the lineup may necessitate other changes in the England backline. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been deployed as a right-back throughout the group stage, could be shifted to the left to replace Trippier, with Kyle Walker moving to the right. Southgate could also opt to bring in Conor Coady or Luke Shaw on the left side of defense. However, both players have seen limited playing time at the tournament and may not be fully match-fit. Trippier’s absence is a major blow to England, who are aiming to reach the latter stages of Euro 2024. The defender’s experience and quality on both sides of the ball will be sorely missed, particularly in a high-stakes knockout match. With the round of 16 just days away, Southgate will need to find a solution to Trippier’s injury as soon as possible. Konsa is the most likely candidate to start at left-back, but the England manager may consider other options if the defender is not fully fit.England are sweating over the fitness of Kieran Trippier ahead of their Euro 2024 last-16 clash with Slovakia on Saturday. The Newcastle defender suffered an ankle injury in training on Tuesday and is now a major doubt for the game. Trippier has been one of England’s most consistent performers in recent months and his absence would be a major blow. Ezri Konsa is the most likely candidate to replace Trippier at right-back. The Aston Villa defender has impressed in his limited appearances for England and would be a more than capable replacement. England manager Gareth Southgate will give Trippier every chance to prove his fitness, but he will not risk the defender if he is not 100% fit. “Kieran has a small ankle problem,” said Southgate. “We’re assessing him and we’ll make a decision on his fitness closer to the game. “Ezri is a player who we have a lot of faith in. He’s a young player with a lot of potential and he’s shown what he can do when he’s played for us. “We’re confident that he can step in and do a good job for us if Kieran is not fit.” England are aiming to reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 for the first time since 2004. They will face a tough test against Slovakia, who are ranked 20th in the world. However, Southgate is confident that his team can get the job done. “We know that Slovakia are a good team,” said Southgate. “They’re well-organised and they have some very good players. “But we’re confident in our own ability and we believe that we can beat anyone on our day. “We’re going into the game with a positive mindset and we’re determined to reach the quarter-finals.”