June 16th 2024.
Jamie Carragher has expressed his support for the decision to play Trent Alexander-Arnold in central midfield for England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia. The Liverpool star has impressed in this position during England's warm-up games and is expected to start alongside Declan Rice in tonight's match.
While Alexander-Arnold's creativity and passing abilities are well-known, there have been concerns about his defensive capabilities in the middle of the park. Roy Keane and Wayne Rooney have both voiced their doubts, with Keane even suggesting that the 25-year-old could get "ripped to shreds" against top teams.
However, England manager Gareth Southgate has defended his decision and Carragher agrees, stating that Alexander-Arnold's quality and experience make him a valuable asset in the team. "You have to find a place for him in this team," Carragher said on Sky Sports. "He is 50 per cent a midfield player because he plays there for Liverpool when they have possession."
Carragher also believes that international football is a different game compared to the Premier League, and the slower pace could work in Alexander-Arnold's favor. He disagrees with the criticism of the defender's defensive abilities, saying that playing in midfield means he has more support around him and fewer one-on-one situations to deal with.
However, Carragher does share the concerns of fellow pundit Keane, particularly when it comes to the later stages of the tournament. He points out the potential danger of facing Germany and their young star Jamal Musiala, who impressed in their opening match against Scotland.
"If England finish second in their group, they could face Germany in the round of 16," Carragher said. "And if Musiala is running at Alexander-Arnold, it could be a problem. He is a real superstar and the only player in this tournament who can dribble centrally like that."
It remains to be seen how Alexander-Arnold will perform in his new role, but Carragher is confident that he has the qualities to succeed. And with the support of the England manager and his former Liverpool teammate, he will be hoping to prove his critics wrong and help his team to victory.
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