Glenn Hoddle backs Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold to start for England at 2022 FIFA World Cup
Former England manager Glenn Hoddle has backed Liverpool’s Trent-Alexander Arnold to play a big part for England in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Speaking to Liverpool Echo, Hoddle spoke about how he would line up with the current England squad in the tournament and the impact of Trent in the team.
“I would play three at the back with wing-backs. Trent Alexander-Arnold would be in my team.”
Hoddle was the manager of the England side in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, which was won by France and hence does have a basic idea of managing a big team at the prestigious tournament.
The former England manager is correct with his assessment of the preferred formation for The Three Lions ahead of their first game with the team having an influx of talent in the fullback position.
Gareth Southgate has found success previously by playing three at the back and with the current personnel in the team, it is actually the formation that could benefit the team the most.
Trent is known for his sublime attacking instincts but at the same time, weak defensive behaviour. Playing with three central defenders could allow the Liverpool fullback to flourish in his role as an attacking wingback and provide another outlet to the attack.
Southgate is renowned for his pragmatic approach of having a solid defensive structure even if it results in an impact on the attack and playing with three defenders certainly appeals to that thought.
It will be interesting to see how Southgate uses his current personnel to hopefully bring out the best in everyone and have a successful tournament ahead. He has opted to start Kieran Trippier at right-back.
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But this doesn’t mean Trent will not get his chances. The Three Lions still have games against Wales and the United States left to play in the group stages. Hopefully, Southgate pays heed to Hoddle’s advice and gives Reds fans something to look forward to when England play next.
