"One of the best players I've ever seen" - Arsenal superstar hits out at Trent Alexander-Arnold's critics
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has defended England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold amid criticism over his performance in midfield during the ongoing Euro 2024. Rice called the 25-year-old 'unbelievable', further stating that he can play in midfield.
Gareth Southgate deployed the Englishman in midfield in their first two Euro 2024 games. However, he was taken off in the second half of both fixtures, in their 1-0 win over Serbia and their 1-1 draw against Denmark.
Pundits have urged the 53-year-old coach to either use Kobbie Mainoo or Cole Palmer in midfield and revert the right-back to his original position. This criticism has been fueled by inefficiencies in England's attack.
Declan Rice, who has played alongside the 25-year-old in midfield, has called his teammate one of the best players he's ever seen. Here's what he said while defending the Liverpool right-back (via ITV Sport):
"It’s funny because people were calling for Trent to play in midfield. Trent is one of the best players I’ve ever seen. Don’t call for someone to play in a position and then back track, all because you think he’s had a bad game or something.
"I’ll tell you now. Trent can play in midfield, I’ve seen it. He’s unbelievable."
The Three Lions play their last group-stage game against Slovenia on Tuesday, June 25.
What did England coach Southgate say while defending his decision to play Trent in midfield?
Gareth Southgate faced a lot of flak for justifying his decision to play Alexander-Arnold in midfield.
Speaking to reporters following England's 1-1 draw against Denmark, Southgate said he doesn't have a 'natural replacement' for Kalvin Phillips.
Here's what he said (via Daily Mail):
"We know it is an experiment and we don't have a natural replacement for Kalvin Phillips, but we're trying some different things and at the moment we're not flowing as we'd like, that's for sure."
Several pundits responded to the remark, saying that the coach has several players to replace Phillips. Furthermore, several even said that Southgate's remark came at a very bad time.