Trent Alexander-Arnold could be set to START in midfield for England’s Euro 2024 opener against Serbia… as Gareth Southgate prepares to line him up alongside Declan Rice as his ball-playing partner

Gareth Southgate will continue his Trent Alexander-Arnold experiment in midfield this week, in a clear indication that the England boss is seriously considering starting the Liverpool star in the opening match of Euro 2024.

The head coach has been exploring the idea of ​​using the Anfield vice-captain, who plays as a right-back for his club, in central midfield for the past 12 months as he looks for a ballplayer for Declan Rice.

The identity of who will play alongside Rice was a mystery heading into the tournament after the omission of Kalvin Phillips, who would play with Rice under normal circumstances.

But it is understood Southgate will enter the final week of preparations ahead of Sunday’s match against Serbia, aiming to hand Alexander-Arnold his biggest midfield test yet.

Southgate will use the coming days to fine-tune his plans ahead of the game at Gelsenkirchen, and while no final decisions have been made on the starting XI for Sunday’s match, Alexander-Arnold has a strong chance of being selected.

It is unclear who will partner Declan Rice in midfield against Serbia on Sunday

The 25-year-old has been handed the number 8 shirt for the tournament, potentially hinting at what looks set to be a leadership role in Germany.

Southgate is keen to use his players in the tournament as he struggles with several fitness issues and has options in midfield.

Conor Gallagher impressed in the warm-up match against Bosnia last week and his chances are boosted by the fact he plays in midfield for Chelsea.

Kobbie Mainoo started against Iceland on Friday, while Adam Wharton has received rave reviews since breaking into the squad.

Jude Bellingham could also feature alongside Rice, but Southgate has earmarked the Real Madrid star for an advanced role.

Alexander-Arnold being handed the No. 8 shirt for the tournament seems to indicate he will play a leading role for the Three Lions

Indeed, Southgate knows he has expertise in that area of ​​the field if his experiment does not have the desired impact.

Elsewhere, Marc Guehi is set to make his first start in a major international tournament at the heart of England’s defence; with Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier likely to play at full-back.

Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden are the favorites to play in attack against captain Harry Kane.

Meanwhile, Manchester United reserve goalkeeper Tom Heaton has been announced as a surprise addition to Southgate’s contingent in Germany.

Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson have been selected as England goalkeepers for the tournament, but Heaton, 38, has been added as a training keeper.

Meanwhile, veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton has been announced as a surprise addition to England’s traveling contingent

“Experience has taught us that a tournament can demand a lot from our goalkeeping group led by Martyn Margetson,” said Southgate.

“Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch, supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean. Off the field, as someone we all know well, he will contribute to the positive environment we always want to create.”