Shaw Fit and Ready to Repay Southgate's Faith at Euro 2024

Luke Shaw expressed readiness to repay Gareth Southgate's trust after overcoming injury setbacks to participate in Euro 2024.

Southgate's decision to include Shaw as the sole natural left-back in a 26-man squad has faced criticism, with the Manchester United player sidelined for most of the tournament.

However, Shaw, 28, made his first appearance since February as a late substitute in England's penalty shootout victory over Switzerland, setting up a semi-final clash with the Netherlands on Wednesday.

"The last four months have been really tough," Shaw stated during a press conference on Monday. "At the start, I was expected to return sooner, but I encountered several setbacks. I'm here now, and it was really nice to get some minutes the other night."

Shaw believes he is fit to start, though Kieran Trippier is likely to retain his place on the left side of a defense that has conceded just three goals in five games.

Despite criticism of Southgate's cautious approach as England navigated a relatively favorable draw to reach the semi-finals, Shaw defended the manager's record, highlighting three semi-final appearances in four major tournaments.

"He's taken us to the next level; no manager has been as successful as him," Shaw acknowledged. "I owe him a lot because he showed faith and trust in selecting me when it wasn't necessary, and for that, I'm grateful. Now, I need to repay that faith."

Shaw, who scored England's opening goal in their first major final in 55 years at Euro 2020, expressed heightened motivation to surpass their previous disappointment against Italy.

"The feelings after that game were the worst I've ever felt," Shaw recalled. "So, of course, motivation is very high. We have world-class players across the pitch, and it's crunch time for those players to step up."

"In these moments, that's what you need, and everyone is eager for another semi-final and a chance to reach another final," Shaw concluded.