The England manager, Gareth Southgate, has faced criticism for using Trent Alexander-Arnold as a scapegoat for the team’s problems. Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s vice-captain, was brought to the Euros as a midfield option and was asked to play in a double-pivot alongside Declan Rice. However, he was substituted in the first two group games and dropped altogether for the final group outing against Slovenia.
Southgate has referred to Alexander-Arnold’s midfield role as an “experiment” and cited a lack of a replacement for Kalvin Phillips as an issue. However, it is worth noting that Southgate hardly played Phillips in the World Cup when he had the chance. The England manager acknowledged that the team is not flowing as they would like and has only scored two goals in three games.
Despite having top players from the Bundesliga, La Liga, and the Premier League, England has only managed 11 shots on target. Interestingly, Alexander-Arnold created the most chances of any England player in the group stages, despite playing only 129 minutes. He averaged 2.1 chances created per 90 minutes, compared to Harry Kane and Phil Foden’s 1.1.
Jurgen Klopp, Alexander-Arnold’s club manager at Liverpool, previously questioned why the best right-back in the world would be played as a midfielder. This experiment seems to have hindered Alexander-Arnold’s ability to showcase his vision and skills.
Southgate’s tactics have limited the freedom of his players and have resulted in a lack of creativity on the pitch. Alexander-Arnold cannot be expected to shine if there is no movement from his teammates. It is frustrating to see a generational talent being thrown under the bus when Southgate had the opportunity to utilize him in his natural position.
The argument that Alexander-Arnold can’t defend is tiresome and unfair. He has proven himself as a top defender at his club and has helped redefine the role of a right-back. It is clear that he is being made the scapegoat for England’s lackluster performances.
Southgate’s lack of tactical understanding has been exposed, and it is Alexander-Arnold who is paying the price. Perhaps Southgate should heed Klopp’s words and utilize his players to their full potential. Alexander-Arnold should not be forgotten as one of the best right-backs in the world.