Lee Carsley, the interim England manager, has announced a major change in roles for Trent Alexander-Arnold in his first England squad announcement. This comes as the international break interrupts regular football, a frustrating but necessary occurrence every season.
After Liverpool’s match against Manchester United, Alexander-Arnold will join the England squad for the first international break of the season. England will be competing against Ireland and Finland in the B Division of the Nations League after being eliminated from the A Division under Gareth Southgate. This break provides an opportunity for Alexander-Arnold and his teammates to bounce back from the disappointment of losing the Euro 2024 final in Germany earlier this summer.
For Alexander-Arnold, it is also a chance to establish himself as a regular in the England side. During Southgate’s tenure, he played a fringe role, often being used as a midfielder while Kyle Walker or Kieran Trippier played at right-back. However, in Carsley’s squad announcement, Alexander-Arnold was listed among the defenders, signifying a change in his position. Carsley explained his decision, stating that he sees Alexander-Arnold as a right-back and expects him to play in defense during this camp.
Carsley highlighted the all-round attributes of modern-day full-backs, comparing them to midfielders. He mentioned Alexander-Arnold’s comfort in receiving the ball and his great range of passing. While Carsley acknowledged the possibility of Alexander-Arnold eventually playing in midfield, for now, he sees him as a right-back.
The England squad for the September internationals features a mix of experienced players and promising talents. Among the defenders, alongside Alexander-Arnold, are Tino Livramento, Rico Lewis, Levi Colwill, Harry Maguire, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, and John Stones. The midfield consists of Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, Morgan Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes, Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden. The forward line includes Noni Madueke, Jack Grealish, Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Ollie Watkins.
Looking beyond the current squad, Carsley’s previous experience as the manager of the U21 team bears significance. He led the U21 team to victory in the U21 Euros in 2023, with Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones playing crucial roles. While they, along with Jarell Quansah, who frequently played for Carsley at the U21 level, did not make the current squad, their performances could catch the eye in the future. If Carsley remains as England manager on a permanent basis, they will have high hopes of earning a call-up.
In conclusion, Alexander-Arnold’s change in roles under Carsley’s interim management offers him a chance to solidify his position as a regular right-back for England. The September internationals provide an opportunity for him and his teammates to bounce back from the Euro 2024 disappointment. Additionally, the inclusion of promising talents in the squad hints at a bright future for England, with Carsley’s U21 success demonstrating his ability to nurture young players.