England’s defender Luke Shaw (R) celebrates after scoring the first goal during the UEFA EURO 2020 final football match between Italy and England at the Wembley Stadium in London on July 11, 2021. Andy Rain / POOL / AFP

Luke Shaw expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by England manager Gareth Southgate and affirmed his readiness to contribute significantly to the team’s success at Euro 2024, having successfully overcome recent injury challenges.

Southgate’s choice to select Shaw as the sole natural left-back in the 26-man roster has drawn criticism, given the Manchester United player’s limited participation in the tournament.

Nevertheless, the 28-year-old individual made his initial appearance for both club and country since February as a substitute player towards the end of the match as England emerged victorious over Switzerland in a penalty shootout, thereby setting up a semi-final encounter with the Netherlands on Wednesday.

“The last four months have been really tough,” Shaw told a press conference on Monday.

“At the start I was expected to come back a lot sooner but I went through quite a few setbacks.

“I’m here now and it was really nice to get on the other night.”

Shaw expresses his readiness to commence the match, though it is anticipated that Mr. Kieran Trippier will maintain his position on the left flank of the defensive line, which has conceded a mere three goals over the course of five games.

Southgate has received significant criticism for his conservative approach, as England has managed to reach the semi-finals despite a relatively favorable draw.

Nevertheless, Shaw defended the England coach’s record of reaching three semi-finals in four major tournaments under his leadership.

Prior to Southgate’s appointment, the England national football team had only reached three semi-finals in its history.

“He’s really taken us to the next level, no manager has really been as a successful as him,” added Shaw.

“I have a lot to thank him for because he showed a lot of faith and trust in picking me when he didn’t have to and for that I will always be thankful.

“Now I need to repay the faith he showed in me.”

Shaw netted the opening goal in England’s first major final in 55 years at Euro 2020.

Nevertheless, that elation was dampened by the unfortunate loss to Italy in the penalty shootout, serving as a catalyst for heightened determination to achieve greater success on this occasion.

“I remember the feelings after that game were the worst I’ve ever felt, so of course the motivation is very high,” Shaw said of the final three years ago.

“We’ve got world class players all over the pitch and it’s now time, the crunch (time) when those players will step up.

“In these moments that’s what you need and everyone is looking forward to another semi-final and trying to reach another final.”