Ian Wright predicts whether Gareth Southgate will drop Trent Alexander-Arnold after England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia

Ian Wright doesn't think Gareth Southgate will drop Trent Alexander-Arnold after his performance in England's 1-0 win over Serbia in their Euro 2024 opener on Sunday (June 16). Alexander-Arnold started the game alongside Declan Rice in midfield. The Liverpool star, who has played as a full-back for the majority for his club, hasn't been a key player under Southgate.

Hence, him starting in midfield alongside Rice was somewhat a surprising move from Southgate. Wright doesn't think Southgate will want to risk dropping him for the upcoming game against Denmark. He feels dropping Alexander-Arnold would bring unwanted attention.

On this, Wright said (via The Boot Room):

"I think if he abandons it now, where else is there for Trent? Are we blaming Trent for not getting the memo properly or not understanding the brief?"

The Arsenal legend added:

"Or do we blame Gareth [Southgate], because for me Trent should be a lot deeper getting the ball. You can't abandon it now because all of the focus comes, 'Oh, Trent has been dropped'. I think he probably plays the same team."

The Three Lions started their campaign on a winning note, courtesy of Jude Bellingham's 13th-minute header. Southgate's side play Denmark next on June 20.

Trent Alexander-Arnold's performance during England vs. Serbia Euro 2024 clash

Trent Alexander-Arnold completed 37 of his 42 attempted passes during England's Euro 2024 opener against Serbia. He played four successful long balls as well.

Alexander-Arnold also managed one shot on target during the game. He won two ground duels and one interception. Apart from an error that led to an effort from Aleksandar Mitrovic, the Liverpool superstar was solid.

He was taken off in the 69th minute of the match. There's no prominent reason why he shouldn't start against Denmark. Trent Alexander-Arnold is a creative player and can showcase his passing range more in the midfield slot. Him playing alongside Declan Rice could prove to be beneficial for Southgate's team.