Gareth Southgate is confronting an unexpected striker crisis that could see Tottenham's teenage prodigy Dane Scarlett catapulted into England's Euro 2024 plans. With established forwards failing to deliver, the Three Lions boss faces a selection headache that might just benefit the rising star from north London.
The Watkins Conundrum
Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, once considered Harry Kane's natural successor, has seen his form dramatically decline at the worst possible moment. The 28-year-old has managed just one goal in his last eleven appearances for club and country, raising serious questions about his reliability as England's backup striker.
"Watkins' dry spell couldn't have come at a worse time," noted one insider close to the England camp. "With the Euros fast approaching, Southgate needs players he can depend on, and right now Ollie isn't delivering."
Toney's International Struggles
Brentford's Ivan Toney, another contender for the striking role, hasn't fared much better on the international stage. Despite his impressive return to Premier League action following an eight-month suspension, the 28-year-old has failed to translate his club form to England duty.
His recent performances in an England shirt have been described as "uninspiring" by pundits, leaving Southgate with limited options behind captain Harry Kane.
The Scarlett Opportunity
Enter 20-year-old Dane Scarlett, whose impressive loan spell at Ipswich Town has caught the attention of England's coaching staff. The Tottenham youngster has been developing rapidly under Kieran McKenna's guidance, showing the kind of form that made him one of England's most promising youth prospects.
While Scarlett remains an outside bet for the final squad, his progression hasn't gone unnoticed at St George's Park. "Dane's development this season has been remarkable," a source revealed. "He's exactly the type of hungry, fearless young player who could thrive in tournament football."
Southgate's Selection Dilemma
The England manager now faces his toughest squad selection yet. Does he stick with the experienced but out-of-form Watkins and Toney, or does he take a gamble on youth and potential?
Southgate has never been afraid to blood young talent, as demonstrated by his early faith in Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka. With several attacking positions still up for grabs, Scarlett's name is increasingly being mentioned in internal discussions.
As one former England international put it: "Sometimes you need that wildcard option off the bench - someone unpredictable who can change a game. Scarlett could be that player."
What Next for England's Attack?
With warm-up matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland in June, Southgate will have final opportunities to assess his options. The coming weeks could be crucial for Scarlett's international ambitions.
While the sensible money remains on Watkins and Toney making the final cut, the door has certainly creaked open for England's next generation. In tournament football, surprises happen - and Dane Scarlett might just be Euro 2024's biggest bolter.
