- England announce squad numbers for Euro 2024
- Alexander-Arnold handed the number eight jersey
- Could hint at Liverpool man playing a midfield role
WHAT HAPPENED?
England’s preparations for Euro 2024 were rocked by a 1-0 defeat to Iceland in their final warm-up match at Wembley on Friday. Gareth Southgate’s side are now days away from their opener against Serbia and have revealed their squad numbers for the tournament in Germany. Alexander-Arnold’s shirt number provides a big clue as to his role in the team.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alexander-Arnold wears the number 66 for Liverpool. However, UEFA’s rules state that players have to wear a shirt number between one and 26. As such, the Reds star has been handed the iconic number eight jersey worn by the likes of Jordan Henderson, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard. The number is usually handed to midfielders and this could hint at the 25-year-old being given a role in the centre of the field rather than at right-back.
DID YOU KNOW?
Real Madrid starlet Jude Bellingham has also worn the number eight for Southgate’s side. However, the 20-year-old has impressed at Santiago Bernabeu in an attacking role and the same role could be assigned to him by Southgate. As such, Bellingham has been handed the number 10 jersey, with Harry Kane taking over the number nine kit.
WHAT NEXT FOR ENGLAND?
The Three Lions will now begin their Euro 2024 campaign with a clash against Serbia on Sunday, June 16 at Arena AufSchalke.
