Wayne Rooney claims that England manager Gareth Southgate has “killed” Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Gallagher by “discarding them” during Euro 2024.
Throughout the group stage, Southgate has been trying to determine if Alexander-Arnold, Gallagher, or Kobbie Mainoo would be the best partner for Declan Rice in midfield.
Despite England winning Group C, their performances against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia were underwhelming, leaving Southgate uncertain about his best lineup.
Rooney now believes that Southgate should stick with Manchester United midfielder Mainoo for the last-16 match against Slovakia and consider starting Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer as well.
“Against Slovenia, Kobbie Mainoo made a strong case for a starting position, Cole Palmer was impressive, and Anthony Gordon, despite limited minutes, had some excellent touches,” Rooney told The Times.
“At the right time in the tournament, Gareth may have found the right team. I would play at least two of those three youngsters against Slovakia. In fact, I suggested before the tournament that my starting XI for the knockout stage should include Mainoo and Gordon.
“None of what happened in the group stage surprised me. I would never have played Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield and expected Gareth to try Conor Gallagher when the experiment failed.
“Gareth harmed both players by discarding them, but it was the right decision. When Mainoo came in, he made forward runs and showed composure on the ball.
“Palmer is well-suited to international football. He handles the ball calmly and has the personality needed on this stage. Gordon is more direct and ensures a good mix.
“With those three on the pitch, you saw runners going beyond Harry Kane, something we hadn’t seen from Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, or Foden.”
Southgate substituted Gallagher at halftime during the 0-0 draw against Slovenia in their last group match. Former Germany international Didi Hamann suggested earlier this week that the Chelsea midfielder might not play again in Euro 2024.
Hamann told RTE, “Gallagher isn’t the problem for the England team. It’s probably too late now. If you target the lesser players, it reflects poorly on the manager, and that’s what he’s done in the tournament. He’s taken Alexander-Arnold as an easy target. Gallagher was taken off at halftime. We likely won’t see Gallagher again for the rest of the tournament.”
