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The anticipation for Euro 2024 continues to build as England reveals their squad numbers for the upcoming tournament.
Among the most notable changes is Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been assigned the prestigious No.8 jersey – a number traditionally reserved for central midfielders.
Alexander-Arnold’s Midfield Potential
Liverpool fans have witnessed Alexander-Arnold occasionally step up from his usual right-back position to play in midfield.
His versatility was on full display during England’s 3-0 warm-up victory over Bosnia, where he scored a goal and was named Man of the Match while donning the No.8 jersey.
This performance has fueled speculation about a potential permanent shift to midfield under new Liverpool manager Arne Slot next season.
It appears Alexander-Arnold will get his first extended opportunity to play in this new role during the Euros this summer.
The Legacy of the No.8 Jersey
The assignment of the No.8 jersey to Alexander-Arnold has generated significant buzz among England supporters.
This number has been famously worn by legendary midfielders like Paul Scholes and Frank Lampard. talkSPORT columnist Henry Winter believes Alexander-Arnold will be crucial for England’s offensive strategy at Euro 2024, drawing comparisons to the impact made by his predecessors.
Former England star Glenn Hoddle has also praised the Liverpool ace, likening him to Kevin De Bruyne in terms of passing ability.
Hoddle expects Alexander-Arnold to make a substantial impact at the tournament, which England will commence against Serbia on June 16.
England’s Final Warm-Up Match Woes
England’s final warm-up match before Euro 2024 ended in disappointment, with a 1-0 loss to Iceland. The dismal performance was met with boos from the Wembley crowd.
Despite this setback, Hoddle remains optimistic about Alexander-Arnold’s role in the team.
“Trent and [Kevin] De Bruyne are probably the best passers in the Premier League,” Hoddle told talkSPORT Drive.
“He hits world-class balls that nobody else can. To have such a talent and not use him… this Euros will be won by the team with the deepest and best squad. I think Trent’s passing ability and his defensive skills will be crucial for England.”
Speculation Around Southgate’s Starting XI
talkSPORT’s England correspondent Faye Carruthers weighed in on the squad numbers, noting that while they don’t definitively indicate Southgate’s starting XI, they do provide significant hints.
“Trent as No.8 is the key one,” she said. “We were all unsure about what Southgate might do. The numbers give you a hint about his thinking, possibly playing Trent in midfield.”
Carruthers also highlighted the assignment of the No.3 jersey to Luke Shaw, indicating his importance to the squad despite his current fitness concerns. Southgate has expressed confidence that Shaw will be available for the second group game against Denmark.
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Squad
Goalkeepers
Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal)
Defenders
Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
Midfielders
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
Forwards
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Conclusion
As England prepares for Euro 2024, the squad number assignments have sparked excitement and speculation among fans.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transition to the No.8 jersey suggests a potential new role in midfield, which could be a game-changer for England’s chances in the tournament.
With his exceptional passing skills and versatility, Alexander-Arnold is poised to play a pivotal role as England aims for glory in the European Championship.
