England and Scotland receive potential Euro 2024 boost as UEFA announces use of 26-man squads

UEFA has confirmed that teams will be allowed to select squads of 26 players for Euro 2024 this summer.

The 24 competing countries were only able to name a team of 23 players for the tournament which will be played in Germany.

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However, managers will now have more options at their disposal as UEFA will allow them to select three additional players to travel.

“The UEFA Executive Committee today decided to increase the maximum size of teams participating in the upcoming UEFA EURO 2024 from the initial quota of 23 to 26 players,” it said in a statement on Friday.

“The increase does not represent an obligation for the participating national associations.

“In accordance with the competition regulations, teams must provide UEFA with a list containing a minimum of 23 players and a maximum of 26 by the deadline of June 7.”

The 2022 World Cup saw participating countries name squads of 26 players, as the tournament took place mid-season.

Euro 2020 also saw the same selection criteria, with the competition being played a year late due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The news will come as music to England boss Gareth Southgate’s ears amid their recent injury problems.

During the international breaks this season, the Three Lions have been without key stars, including Reece James, Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier.

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Fitness doubts have also been raised regarding players such as Bukayo Saka, Harry Maguire and John Stones.

Scotland boss Steve Clarke has seen Andy Robertson injured on international duty twice this season, most recently in March.

However, UEFA’s latest announcement means that the competing teams will likely have fewer injury and fitness concerns during the tournament.

England face Serbia for the first time at Euro 2024 on June 16, while Scotland face Germany on the opening night two days before.