England manager Gareth Southgate is reportedly set to leave out three key players from his starting lineup for the Euro 2024 final against Spain. The Three Lions boss is expected to stick with the same team that got them to the European Championship showdown at Berlin's Olympiastadion, meaning Ollie Watkins, Cole Palmer and Luke Shaw will miss out.

Watkins made a significant impact in the semi-final, coming on as a substitute in the 81st minute to replace captain Harry Kane. His contribution was crucial, scoring a stunning goal just nine minutes later to secure England's place in the final.

Despite this, The Telegraph is reporting that Watkins, along with Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold, will once again start on the bench. Chelsea's Palmer, who assisted Watkins' goal, is also expected to be left out of the starting XI. Shaw, despite proving his fitness, is also set to miss out on a starting spot.

Following his limited playing time during the tournament, despite an impressive record of 19 goals and 13 assists in the Premier League, Watkins has shared his frustrations. He said: "Recently, I have obviously got a bit frustrated. I don't like to be on the bench; I have had the best season of my career.

"A few friends messaged me and said 'be patient', and the amount of people who messaged me tonight saying I would score when I come on was ridiculous. Hopefully they can do the same for the final or give me the lottery numbers."

Southgate remains likely to trust Kieran Trippier over Shaw just as he did during the 2-1 semi-final triumph over the Dutch. Shaw, returning fit after a long-term hamstring injury that led to substitute appearances against Switzerland and the Netherlands, consequently puts him in contention for the finals.

But it appears Southgate is still not convinced enough to adjust the team setup after witnessing better performance since the switch to a 3-4-2-1 formation. This suggests that left-wing back Trippier will start the match, with Bukayo Saka on the other wing.

Also featuring Jordan Pickford as the goalkeeper and the defensive trio comprising Kyle Walker, John Stones and Marc Guehi. In the midfield, Declan Rice will take on a more defensive role alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Leading the attack will be Kane, with Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham providing support just behind him in the No 10 positions.