Southgate’s Risky Experiment with Alexander-Arnold in Euro 2024 Midfield Raises Eyebrows
Gareth Southgate has risked further frustration among England fans by admitting that using Trent Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role at Euro 2024 is an “experiment.” Southgate also mentioned the lack of a “natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips.”
Alexander-Arnold has been praised for his passing ability and vision, which led Southgate to utilize him in midfield—a position that never seemed to fit the Liverpool star under Southgate’s tenure, dating back to 2021.
However, fans were surprised to see Alexander-Arnold listed as a midfielder when the Euro 2024 squad was announced, especially since Jurgen Klopp had been reluctant to use him in that role at Liverpool. Despite Southgate’s persistence, the results have been underwhelming. In each of England’s first two games at Euro 2024, the team has delivered disappointing performances, and Alexander-Arnold has been substituted in the second half, suggesting that the experiment isn’t working.
Southgate reflected on the situation after England’s 1-1 draw against Denmark. “He’s had some moments where he’s delivered what we thought he would,” Southgate told BBC One. “We know it’s an experiment. We know we don’t have a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips. We’re trying different things and at the moment we’re not flowing as we’d like.”
Many England fans argue that the squad has ample midfield talent and that replacing Phillips shouldn’t be too difficult. They point to players like Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, and Adam Wharton as viable alternatives. When asked why Alexander-Arnold was substituted, Southgate responded, “I wanted Conor on. We needed energy, we needed to press better. Conor does that very well.”
Given England’s struggles to control the midfield with Alexander-Arnold in that role, Southgate may need to reconsider his strategy. The decision to experiment with such a crucial position at a major tournament has not paid off so far, and the clock is ticking for Southgate to find a solution.
The Origins of the Experiment
Southgate’s decision to use Alexander-Arnold in midfield stems from his belief in the player’s technical skills and passing range. These attributes have been evident throughout Alexander-Arnold’s career at Liverpool, where he has excelled as a right-back. Southgate hoped to harness these qualities in a more central role, aiming to add creativity and control to England’s midfield.
However, the transition has been anything but smooth. Alexander-Arnold’s performances have been inconsistent, and the team has struggled to adapt to the new setup. The decision to experiment with such a pivotal role at a major tournament is a gamble that has yet to pay off.
The Lack of a Natural Replacement
Southgate’s admission that he lacks a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips highlights a broader issue within the England squad. Phillips, who played a key role in England’s Euro 2020 campaign, has been difficult to replace. While the squad boasts several talented midfielders, none have been able to fill Phillips’ shoes effectively.
This lack of a natural replacement has forced Southgate to try different options, including the use of Alexander-Arnold in midfield. However, this approach has not yielded the desired results, and the team has struggled to find its rhythm.
Fan Frustration and Criticism
England fans have not been shy in expressing their frustration with Southgate’s experiment. Many believe that the squad has enough depth in midfield to find a suitable replacement for Phillips without resorting to such drastic measures. The inclusion of players like Gallagher, Mainoo, and Wharton in the squad has given fans hope that there are viable alternatives available.
The continued use of Alexander-Arnold in midfield, despite the team’s struggles, has only added to the frustration. Fans argue that Alexander-Arnold’s strengths are best utilized in his natural right-back position, where he has consistently performed at a high level for Liverpool.
The Need for a Reassessment
Given the underwhelming results of the experiment, Southgate may need to reassess his strategy. The decision to play Alexander-Arnold in midfield was a bold move, but it has not delivered the desired outcomes. England’s performances at Euro 2024 have been below par, and the team has struggled to find its footing.
Southgate must now consider whether it is worth persisting with the experiment or if a change is needed. The clock is ticking, and England’s chances of success at Euro 2024 depend on finding the right balance in midfield.
Conclusion
Gareth Southgate’s experiment with Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield has been a risky gamble that has yet to pay off. With England’s performances at Euro 2024 falling short of expectations, the pressure is mounting on Southgate to find a solution. The lack of a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips has forced Southgate to try different options, but the results have been disappointing.
As England looks to progress in the tournament, Southgate must decide whether to stick with the experiment or revert to a more traditional approach. The future of England’s Euro 2024 campaign may well hinge on this crucial decision.