Trent Alexander-Arnold has been made the scapegoat for the England team and instead of defending him, Gareth Southgate is very much leaving him out to dry.
Speaking of the decision to replace the Scouser with Conor Gallagher, Craig Burley said: “It just smells to me of conservatism gone crazy.”
READ MORE: (Video) Sky Sports pundit credits Southgate for decision to bench ‘out of position’ Trent
It’s a fair assessment from the Scot who is reveling in the turmoil that is coming from an average national side.
If there was a manager who knew what they were doing at the helm, then our vice captain would be one of the first names on the team sheet – not being taken off it.
You can watch Burley’s comments on Alexander-Arnold (from 0:43) via ESPN UK on YouTube:
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The games that have been played so far have been a rare mixture of success and disappointment. As far as the England games are concerned I can’t imagine how 26 of the best English players can turn in such a dismal display “as a team”. They are only trying to apply their talents in the way their manager instructs them, and I for my part can’t see how TAA can “ply his trade” with the rest of the team beside him and no strikers high up the field in front of him. He’s the most skilful player as far as perception and ability to pass the ball in the whole squad.