Former England footballer Paul Scholes has publicly advised manager Gareth Southgate to implement three key changes for the forthcoming match against Slovenia. Scholes has suggested that 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo should be given his inaugural start at the Euros, and that Trent Alexander-Arnold should be relocated to the left-back position.
Scholes conveyed his recommendations via Instagram, proposing that Alexander-Arnold be deployed at left-back, with Mainoo assuming a midfield role and Cole Palmer making his tournament debut on the right wing. Although Scholes did not provide an extensive rationale for his suggestions, he was unequivocal in his statement, noting, “would give reasons but too many touchy f***ers out there. Laters.”
Similarly, former England player Ashley Cole has proposed that Anthony Gordon play from the left, and has advocated for Phil Foden to be given an opportunity on the right wing. Cole believes that Foden has been unduly criticised and deserves the chance to showcase his true abilities to the world.
Conversely, England manager Gareth Southgate has voiced his apprehension regarding the absence of a natural successor to Kalvin Phillips in midfield. Nevertheless, pundit and ex-England star Ian Wright has championed Mainoo, suggesting that either Mainoo or Adam Wharton should be afforded the opportunity to excel in central midfield.
Wright contends that Wharton possesses the composure, passing prowess, and acumen requisite for the role, and should be considered as a viable option for Southgate. He has also posited that the current situation necessitates a modification to the squad in order to introduce a novel element.
Amidst the divergent viewpoints of former players and pundits, the question of who should feature for England against Slovenia remains a subject for open deliberation. The input from diverse sources offers valuable insights into the potential alterations that Southgate may contemplate for the impending fixture.
It will be intriguing to observe whether Southgate incorporates the recommendations put forth by Scholes, Cole, and Wright as he finalises the team for the crucial encounter. There is mounting pressure on England to secure a triumph and progress deeper into the tournament, and the composition of the starting lineup will be pivotal in determining the team’s performance.
As the football community eagerly awaits the decision, the opinions of former players and pundits have engendered debates among enthusiasts and experts alike. The potential inclusion of budding talents such as Mainoo and Palmer could infuse fresh dynamism into the England squad, and their displays on the international stage continue to captivate the interest of football aficionados.
The forthcoming match against Slovenia presents an opportunity for Southgate to contemplate the proposed changes and make calculated decisions to steer the team towards success in the tournament. As discussions surrounding the England squad persist, anticipation mounts for the match that will unveil the manager’s selections and their resultant impact on the team’s performance.