Anthony Gordon offers huge Luke Shaw injury update ahead of Slovakia clash

Anthony Gordon has hinted that Luke Shaw is on the verge of returning to England's lineup for Euro 2024, pointing to the 28-year-old's impressive strides in training this week.

In the Manchester United man's injury-enforced absence, Kieran Trippier has been deployed at left-back but has struggled to leave a lasting impact with his performances. The 33-year-old's adaptation to the role has been challenging, lacking the dynamism and offensive threat that Shaw typically offers.

With Trippier himself now battling an injury concern, England manager Gareth Southgate has a major headache when it comes to naming a starting left-back, but Shaw's impending return could provide a much-needed boost.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Gordon revealed: "[Shaw]'s progressing well actually, especially in the last week or so. He's a good lad, he's very professional and there was never any doubt that he'd be fit at some point. It was just about making sure he was right.

"I was injured at the start with him, so I've seen his rehab, and he's done it all to a very high standard. And now we're seeing the results of that."

Gareth Southgate openly acknowledged taking a risk by including Shaw in England's squad for duty in Germany, given the player's sidelining since February due to injury. Nevertheless, the manager expressed confidence in Shaw's recovery, expecting him to be available during the group stage of the tournament.

United boss Erik ten Hag, however, had previously insisted that Shaw's return would only be feasible during the knockout stages, and it appears the Dutchman's prediction has proven accurate.

England face Slovakia on Sunday, the winner facing either Italy or Switzerland in the quarter-finals.