Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to start in midfield alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham when England face Serbia in their Euro 2024 opener on Sunday. Manager Gareth Southgate is considering the Liverpool vice-captain for the third midfield spot, impressed by his passing range and recent performances.
England are light on experience after leaving Kalvin Phillips and Jordan Henderson out of the squad. Other options include Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, and Adam Wharton, but Alexander-Arnold, who has been given the No 8 shirt, impressed after starting in central midfield in last week's friendly win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The 25-year-old has had limited impact at previous major tournaments, featuring as a bit-part player at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and missing Euro 2020 through injury. Southgate first experimented with Alexander-Arnold in midfield in a World Cup qualifier against Andorra in 2021, and the player has since been used in a hybrid role at Liverpool.
England's buildup has been disrupted by injuries, with Harry Maguire ruled out and concerns over Luke Shaw, John Stones, and others. Shaw is hoping to return for the second group game against Denmark, while Stones is expected to be fit for the Serbia match after an ankle injury.
