Luke Shaw provides two-word injury update ahead of Slovakia last-16 clash

England defender Luke Shaw has insisted that he will be available for Sunday's Euro 2024 last-16 clash against Slovakia.

The Three Lions clinched top spot in Group C despite having to settle for a goalless draw in Tuesday's meeting with Slovenia.

England ultimately finished the group stage with five points after beating Serbia and drawing against Denmark in their two matches before the Slovenia clash.

Their underwhelming performances have drawn significant criticism, but they may still fancy their chances of going deep into the tournament after earning a spot in the favourable half of the draw.

However, before they can look too far ahead, Gareth Southgate's side must negotiate a last-16 tie against Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.

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Shaw makes fitness admission

Southgate should have the majority of his squad available for Sunday's fixture, but there has been some doubt as to whether Shaw would have any role to play in the knockout rounds.

The Manchester United left-back has missed England's first three games as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury which has kept him out of action since January.

However, Shaw has indicated that he could be ready to play some role in the last-16 encounter after returning to full training earlier this week.

"Next game," Shaw said when asked by reporters if he was close to playing as he left the stadium in Koln following Tuesday's draw with Slovenia.

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What could Shaw's return mean for England?

Shaw has not played a competitive game since featuring in Man United's 2-1 win over Luton Town in February, raising obvious concerns over his lack of match practice.

With that in mind, Shaw is unlikely to start against Slovakia, but he could be given some valuable minutes off the bench if England are able to get themselves in a strong position in the contest.

The lack of a natural left-back has been one of the main issues in England's three group matches, with the right-footed Kieran Trippier having to play on the left side as a result of Shaw's absence.

If Shaw can prove his fitness, his return would create a better-balanced side and offer England an overlapping option on the left flank.

However, England cannot demand too much from the Man United man, especially as he has not represented his country since June 2023.