Gareth Southgate has made his latest squad selection for the start of the 2022 World Cup qualifying games.
The big news surrounds Liverpool right-back Alexander-Arnold, who has been left out as Southgate feels the Reds defender hasn’t been playing well enough to earn a place in the Three Lions squad.
Trent made his debut in the 2018 World Cup, where he became the fourth teenager to start a match for England in the tournament. Since then he has won the Champions League and the Premier League with Liverpool, registering 28 assists and six goals.
This season Liverpool have fallen off their pedestal and Trent’s performances have been far from what they were in previous seasons. The absence of the playmaker opens the door for more English youngsters to try and stake their claim on the England side.
Bukayo Saka is one of the most promising English prospects and has rightly been awarded a place in Southgate’s squad. Back in October 2020, the 19-year-old made his international debut against Wales. This season Saka has been superb. The Englishman has easily been one of Arsenal’s best players, either in his defensive duties, midfield or attacking, Saka’s versatility and awareness has been seriously impressive in the Premier League.
Phil Foden is quickly becoming one of the most highly rated youngsters of the current generation. The 20-year-old made his international debut against Iceland back in September 2020. Since then Foden has taken Manchester City’s title charge in his stride, scoring six goals and five assist this season. Foden’s strength, skill and tactical nous has shone through this season and many will argue the twenty-year-old deserves a place in Southgate’s starting XI.
Jude Bellingham is the youngest member of Southgate’s squad. The teenager plays for Borussia Dortmund and made his debut at just 17-years-old, making him England’s third-youngest player. The midfielder moved to Germany after an impressive stint with Birmingham City in the Championship. Bellingham has now played over 20 games in the Bundesliga, including eight Champions League games. His defensive-minded approach combined with his lightning speed makes him an invaluable asset for England and certainly one for the future.
Reece James is the replacement for Trent’s right-back position, as Southgate hailed his form as “exceptional”. James made his England debut back in 2020 following a 3-0 win against Wales. Chelsea are currently flying in the Premier League and Champions League and his form make’s him the obvious choice over Trent.
Southgate has clearly opted for defence over attack with this decision. Despite Trent’s decline in form, he has still managed to create more big chances than Tripper, Walker and James this season in the league.
Upcoming England games
England’s first of three games is against San Marino at Wembley on March 25. The Three Lions then play away in Albania on March 28 before the final game against Poland at Wembley on March 31.
