Trent Alexander-Arnold is in pole position to start Euro 2024 as Declan Rice s midfield partner as Cole Palmer has been handed a boost in his bid to start against Serbia.
Alexander-Arnold started in midfield alongside Conor Gallagher in , and a report suggests he s beaten off competition from the Chelsea man, Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton to play in the Three Lions double pivot alongside Rice.
Given No.8 shirt for a reason
The Liverpool star scored in that game having moved to right-back and looked more comfortable in his natural position, but with Kyle Walker sure to start in that role, and Gareth Southgate keen on having Alexander-Arnold s passing range as a weapon, .
England have nearly a week of training ahead of their Group C opener against Serbia on Sunday night, during which one of the other options available to Southgate may stake their claim, while injuries could yet play a role, but Alexander-Arnold is the man in possession as things stand.
A source said: A lot can change, obviously, but Trent was given the No 8 shirt for a reason.
There are fitness doubts over John Stones, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and – most significantly as the only natural left-back in the squad – Luke Shaw, who looks set to return to full training this week, but is expected to miss the opening game.
