Trent Alexander-Arnold to be given golden chance against Switzerland in Nations League third-place play-off after Kyle Walker’s poor display
- The Liverpool defender is set to replace Kyle Walker in Gareth Southgate’s side
- Trent Alexander-Arnold has had a hugely impressive season, providing 15 assists
- Southgate believes the 20-year-old defender is ready to become a regular
Trent Alexander-Arnold will be handed the opportunity to become England’s first-choice right back on Sunday.
The Liverpool defender is set to replace Kyle Walker in Gareth Southgate’s defence in the Nations League third-place play-off against Switzerland.
Alexander-Arnold has had a hugely impressive season, providing 15 assists for Jurgen Klopp’s Champions League winning side.
Trent Alexander-Arnold will be handed the opportunity to become England’s first-choice
Now Southgate believes the 20-year-old defender is ready to become a fixture in his team for the European Championship qualifying campaign and beyond.
Walker endured a difficult night in Thursday’s disappointing 3-1 semi-final defeat by Holland to raise further questions over his role in England’s starting XI.
The emergence of Crystal Palace right back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who Southgate is known to admire, will also place Walker’s place in the squad under threat next season.
Kieran Trippier, who was one of England’s best players in last year’s unforgettable run to the World Cup semi-finals, has already lost his place in the squad and if Wan-Bissaka’s rise continues Walker could be next. Alexander-Arnold is likely to be among a host of changes to Southgate’s side for tomorrow’s match in Guimaraes.
Marcus Rashford is a doubt with an ankle injury, while Jordan Henderson will also be monitored.
Eric Dier is hopeful of a start, while Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli will be pushing for inclusion.
The Liverpool defender is set to replace Kyle Walker (pictured) in Gareth Southgate’s defence