Lineker slams Southgate’s decision to play Reece James over Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold
England see themselves relegated post their 1-0 defeat to Italy at the San Siro on Friday night. A Giacomo Raspadori goal in the 68th minute was all it took for Gli Azzurri to secure the victory against Gareth Southgate’s team.
One could argue that Trent Alexander-Arnold and his creativity on the ball would have been beneficial to create more chances against Italy, who play five at the back and tend to be a low block side playing only on the counter.
England gaffer Gareth Southgate stood booed off the pitch, raising concerns over his future with the World Cup less than two months away. Former England striker Gary Lineker questioned Southgate’s decision [via Twitter] to bench one of the team’s most creative players in Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Additionally, Lineker expressed his displeasure at the fact that James Maddison of Leicester City was not in the squad. The ex-Tottenham striker believes that Maddison is “England’s most creative midfielder” and should have seen himself playing for The Three Lions this international break.
Speaking of the loss, Gareth Southgate believed that the game was a “step in the right direction” but there would be displeasure due to the result of the game. Moreover, he said that it is crucial for him to soak the pressure off his players. (h/t Daily Mail)
“A lot of good individual performances, I personally thought the performance was a step in the right direction but I’Il perfectly understand that because of the result that’s not going to be the reaction.”
With this loss, England now hold the unfortunate statistic of not scoring a goal from open play in 450 minutes. And following this loss, the Three Lions stand relegated from their UEFA Nations League group.
Trent’s last appearance for the Three Lions came in their 1-0 loss to Hungary earlier this year in June. So far, he has played 17 times for England, scoring a goal and four assists.
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Performances like this one raise doubts over Southgate and his future managing the English national team. With the World Cup later this year, it is important for them to not lose focus and try to get the best result possible.
