Erik ten Hag doesn’t know anything about football he’s overrated…He has the best players in the League but always keeping him on bench”: Frank Lampard says Man United has the best player in the Premier League but Erik ten Hag doesn’t like starting him as he ordered the player to join Chelsea with immediate effect

Former midfielder Frank Lampard has emphasized the significant impact of England’s lack of Luke Shaw at Euro 2024. Despite England advancing to the knockout stage as winners of Group C, their performance has been underwhelming, with the team struggling to make an impression after a series of draws following a narrow 1-0 victory over Serbia.

England’s tactical approach has been challenged due to Shaw’s absence, as the Manchester United left-back continues to regain full fitness after Southgate took a gamble including him in the squad. The team has missed the natural balance and offensive threat that Shaw provides on the left flank, which has been partly filled by Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier playing out of position.

Lampard, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, pointed out that Shaw’s absence has been notably detrimental. He highlighted how Shaw’s presence in previous tournaments allowed for a more effective balance on the left side of the pitch. With Shaw’s offensive capabilities, Kyle Walker could stay more centrally, creating a three-at-the-back formation that allowed for greater attacking options.

Lampard also noted the broader impact of not having a natural left-footed player. He suggested that while right-footed centre-backs like Marc Guehi can adapt and make the necessary passes, the specific attributes required from a left-back are crucial. Lampard argued that modern football, as exemplified by teams like Germany, relies heavily on the advanced positioning and offensive contributions of full-backs. Thus, missing Shaw affects the team’s overall balance and effectiveness.

Lampard acknowledged that Southgate is trying to find solutions, possibly considering alternative strategies to enhance attacking width and dynamic runs on the left. He also praised Marc Guehi, who has stood out in the tournament. Guehi, currently with Crystal Palace, has adapted well to international football, showcasing the qualities Lampard recognized during his time at Chelsea. Lampard expressed pride in Guehi’s progress and his ability to handle the pressures of international play, highlighting his impressive performance as a positive aspect of England’s campaign.Frank Lampard’s observations highlight the significant impact of Luke Shaw’s absence on England’s performance at Euro 2024. Lampard noted that Shaw’s natural balance and offensive threat on the left flank were sorely missed, particularly in creating a more effective tactical setup. Shaw’s presence in previous tournaments allowed for a cohesive three-at-the-back formation, with Kyle Walker benefiting from the space Shaw’s advanced positioning provided.

Lampard emphasized the specialized attributes of a left-footed player like Shaw in modern football, where full-backs play a crucial role in both defense and attack. He pointed out that while right-footed center-backs can adapt, the specific capabilities of a natural left-back are essential for maintaining tactical balance and maximizing offensive opportunities, as seen in teams like Germany.

Acknowledging Gareth Southgate’s efforts to find solutions, Lampard highlighted Marc Guehi’s adaptation and standout performance as a positive development for England. Guehi’s ability to handle the demands of international football reflects well on his growth from his time at Chelsea, which Lampard closely followed.

Overall, Lampard’s insights underscore the strategic challenges England faces without Shaw and the ongoing adjustments Southgate is exploring to optimize the team’s tactical effectiveness and attacking prowess on the left side of the pitch.