Alexander-Arnold’s England future could rest on Southgate’s tactical decision

Trent Alexander-Arnold's England future could rest on Gareth Southgate's tactical decision to play three at the back says former England boss.

The Liverpool right-back was left out of Southgate's England World Cup Qualifying selection back in March but has been re-called for the 33-man provisional European Championships squad.

The Scouse full-back played a huge part as The Reds went 10 Premier League matches unbeaten to secure a third-place finish and qualify for the Champions League.

But his starting berth at the Euros isn't guaranteed, with Southgate calling up four right-backs to the provisional squad.

Former Three Lions manager Glenn Hoddle argues Alexander-Arnold will only start if England go with wing-backs. Speaking to Betfair Hoddle said:

"Gareth has picked four right backs in his provisional squad, and there is an abundance of talent there. I think a lot will depend on what shape Gareth wants to play.

"Kyle Walker and Reece James have played in the right side of a three, so he has some options there. If Maguire is fit, John Stones can also play on the right side of a three.

"For me the best wing-back we have is Trent Alexander-Arnold, going forward he is outstanding and has a lot of talent on the pitch. Kieran Trippier has also had a decent season and has won the league title in Spain."

At the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Southgate deployed Walker as the right centre-back utilising a back three. Trippier and Ashley Young were used as wing-backs.

It's a formation we've rarely seen England play since; the Three Lions lined-up in a 4-3-3 in their most recent game against Poland with Chilwell and the aforementioned Walker operating as the full-backs.

Hoddle says a return to the system Southgate preferred in Russia is Alexander-Arnold's best chance of international football:

"Gareth will have to leave one of them out but, as for who that is, it will be will depend on the shape.

"If we're playing with a back four, I think Gareth will leave Alexander-Arnold out, but if its a three at the back then the Liverpool man has to have a place because going forward there's no one better."

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