Neville Points Out Key Midfield Challenges For England At Euro 2024

Gary Neville has expressed significant concerns regarding the balance of England's midfield following their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia. Despite Jude Bellingham's fourth international goal securing a win for the Three Lions, the match in Gelsenkirchen was challenging. Jordan Pickford's crucial save against Dusan Vlahovic in the second half preserved Gareth Southgate's record of winning the opening game of every major tournament he has managed.

The primary issue discussed ahead of the tournament was Southgate's choice for central midfield. Trent Alexander-Arnold was selected to play alongside Declan Rice. Neville highlighted that the fluidity of the game through midfield is an area that needs improvement during the group stage. He stressed that facing stronger teams would require a well-balanced midfield.

Neville remarked, "There are some small alarm bells around balance and having a good group of players that are very talented but are we as good a team? Last night, you start to think about the impact and influence of Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips."

Neville also pointed out the imbalance created by Kieran Trippier playing as a right-footed left-back due to injuries in that position. He emphasised that while Trippier's situation is a concern, the midfield balance remains a more pressing issue for Southgate.

Alexander-Arnold completed 37 of his 42 passes against Serbia, achieving an 88.1 percent pass accuracy, which was the joint-third lowest among those who started the game. Only Phil Foden and Harry Kane had lower accuracy rates. Although Alexander-Arnold showed his wide passing range, he made a mistake late in the first half, allowing Aleksandar Mitrovic a shot on goal.

Player Performance

Neville commented on Alexander-Arnold's performance, stating, "We know [Alexander-Arnold] can do it when he moves into midfield from right-back and then can deliver those crosses and passes. There were times when he found himself with his back to play and that is a different story."

Neville clarified that his focus was not solely on Alexander-Arnold but on the overall balance of the midfield, including Declan Rice. He stressed the importance of finding the right combination to advance in the tournament.

Future Considerations

Neville noted that all eyes would be on Alexander-Arnold, whose best position is right-back with the ability to move forward or play a quarter-back role. However, it appears Southgate will stick with Kyle Walker in that position, which Neville agrees is the correct decision.

"Gareth will know he's got an issue with these talented players and how he gets them all into the team - and most importantly with the right balance," Neville concluded.