Trent Alexander-Arnold has set his sights on being a regular starter for England at next summer's European Championship, believing his recent performances in midfield will secure a key role. The Liverpool right-back missed Euro 2020 through injury and had a limited role at the 2022 World Cup, but has impressed since being deployed in central midfield by Gareth Southgate.
'I see an opportunity to play in the Euros and it's an opportunity I want to take,' said Alexander-Arnold. 'Every game between now and the end of the season is to earn a place to start in the Euros. These are huge opportunities. That is where my head is at when I'm turning up to camp. I want to start those games at the Euros and be someone who can help win silverware for the country.'
The 25-year-old regards his performance against Malta last June, when he played in midfield, as a turning point. 'The Malta game was my best performance in an England shirt. When I heard there could be a potential opportunity in midfield, it ignited something within me. There was a chance to go out there and take it. I think that's what I did.'
Alexander-Arnold plays as a hybrid midfielder for Liverpool and was used as an inverted right-back against Australia last month. 'I suppose I've never really played a traditional full-back role ever, but as close to a Trent version of a full-back as you can get,' he added. England face Malta on Friday before travelling to North Macedonia, having already secured qualification for Euro 2024.
