Southgate ‘to AXE Alexander-Arnold and change him with Gallagher’

Gareth Southgate will end his England midfield experiment by dropping Trent Alexander-Arnold and starting Conor Gallagher against Slovenia at Euro 2024, according to reports.

Alexander-Arnold, a natural right back for Liverpool at club level, was named in Southgate’s starting XI for the victory over Serbia and draw with Denmark but is now expected to drop out of midfield with Gallagher taking his place.

Chelsea‘s Gallagher had replaced Alexander-Arnold during both of the Three Lions’ first group games and The Athletic claim he will get the nod for tomorrow’s match. 

Southgate and assistant manager Steve Holland are believed to have worked with Alexander-Arnold over a number of months to prepare him for his unfamiliar role but his displays alongside Declan Rice divided opinion among supporters and pundits.

England lead Group C on four points and will aim to finish top in Cologne. 

More to follow.