It’s possible that Trent Alexander-Arnold might begin the game in midfield for England’s Euro 2024 kickoff against Serbia, with Gareth Southgate contemplating pairing him with Declan Rice as a ball-playing partner.

Gareth Southgate is poised to persist with his experiment of using Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield this week, signaling a serious consideration from the England manager to start the Liverpool standout in the Euro 2024 opener.

Over the past 12 months, the head coach has been exploring the possibility of deploying Alexander-Arnold, primarily a right-back at his club, in a central midfield role alongside Declan Rice, as he seeks a ball-playing partner.

With the absence of Kalvin Phillips, who would typically partner Rice, the identity of Rice’s midfield companion has been a puzzle leading up to the tournament. However, it is understood that Southgate is inclined to give Alexander-Arnold his most significant midfield test yet as the team enters the final week of preparations ahead of Sunday’s clash against Serbia.

Southgate will utilize the coming days to fine-tune his strategies for the match in Gelsenkirchen, and while no definitive decisions have been made regarding the starting lineup for Sunday’s game, Alexander-Arnold stands a strong chance of being included.

Gareth Southgate is considering starting Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield for England’s Euro 2024 opener

The 25-year-old has been assigned the No 8 jersey for the competition, potentially indicating his anticipated leading role in Germany.

Southgate is eager to utilize his squad throughout the tournament, given various fitness concerns and the availability of midfield options. Conor Gallagher made a strong impression in the recent warm-up match against Bosnia, with his chances bolstered by his midfield position at Chelsea.

Kobbie Mainoo started in the match against Iceland last Friday, while Adam Wharton has garnered praise since his inclusion in the squad. Jude Bellingham may also be considered alongside Rice, but Southgate has designated the Real Madrid star for a more advanced position.

Indeed, Southgate is aware of the depth in midfield should his experiment not yield the desired results. Elsewhere, Marc Guehi is poised to earn his first start in a major international tournament, anchoring England’s defense alongside Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier, who are likely to occupy the full-back positions.

Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden are the frontrunners to flank captain Harry Kane in the attacking lineup.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s backup goalkeeper, Tom Heaton, has been unexpectedly included in Southgate’s squad in Germany. While Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, and Dean Henderson have been chosen as England’s goalkeepers for the tournament, Heaton, aged 38, has been brought in as a training goalkeeper.

Southgate stated, “Experience has taught us that a tournament can place significant demands on our goalkeeping unit, led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play a crucial role on the training ground, supporting Jordan, Aaron, and Dean. Additionally, his familiarity with the team will contribute to the positive atmosphere we always strive to foster.”