In a move that has sent shockwaves through English football, Gareth Southgate has deliberately omitted Liverpool's creative force Trent Alexander-Arnold from his latest England squad selection for the critical World Cup qualifiers against Hungary and Poland.
The controversial decision comes despite Alexander-Arnold's exceptional start to the 2025/26 Premier League season, where he has already registered three assists in just four appearances for Liverpool. The 26-year-old right-back has been a consistent performer for his club, making his exclusion all the more puzzling to pundits and fans alike.
Southgate's Selection Headaches
Southgate's squad reveals a clear preference for alternative options in the right-back position, with Kyle Walker, Reece James, and Rico Lewis all receiving the nod ahead of the Liverpool defender. This selection strategy suggests a tactical shift that may not align with Alexander-Arnold's particular skill set.
The England manager defended his decision, stating: "We have immense competition in every position, and these selections are based on current form, tactical suitability, and the specific requirements of the upcoming matches."
Fan and Pundit Reaction
The football community has reacted with widespread surprise to the omission. Many analysts point to Alexander-Arnold's unique creative abilities and set-piece expertise as qualities that could prove invaluable in breaking down stubborn defensive teams during qualification matches.
This isn't the first time Southgate has overlooked the Liverpool star for important matches, but the timing seems particularly curious given Alexander-Arnold's strong early-season performances and proven track record at the highest level of European football.
What This Means for England's Campaign
With England sitting comfortably at the top of their qualifying group with a perfect record of four wins from four matches, Southgate apparently feels confident enough to make bold selection choices without jeopardizing the team's progression to the 2026 World Cup.
However, the decision to leave out one of the Premier League's most potent creative forces will undoubtedly be scrutinized should England struggle to create chances against defensively organized opponents in the upcoming qualifiers.
