Paul Scholes gives his verdict on how Gareth Southgate should switch up the England lineup as they face Slovenia in the last game of the Euro 2024 group stage. He includes his Kobbie Mainoo decision.
It has been a somewhat disappointing Euro 2024 campaign thus far, which seems baffling to say considering they’re undefeated and top of their group.
The harsh reality is that the performances have not been great. Particularly against Denmark, the England national side was rather lacklustre and got downright outclassed at times by the Danish.
Things may need to change as they take on Slovenia, to which Manchester United legend Paul Scholes agrees.
Paul Scholes makes England decision
Taking to his Instagram story on Sunday morning, Scholes suggested to Gareth Southgate three tactical changes that should be made ahead of Tuesday night’s clash.
He suggested there must be changes to the topic that has sparked big debate over the past week, and that’s whether Trent Alexander-Arnold should remain in midfield alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
Scholes believes that Trent should stay on the pitch, but switch to left-back – with Manchester United academy star Kobbie Mainoo accompanying the midfield slot. He also reckons Chelsea wonderkid Cole Palmer should feature from the off.
He wrote: “Sunday AM thoughts. TAA [Trent Alexander-Arnold] left-back, Mainoo centre-mid, Palmer on the right… would give reasons but too many touchy ***kers out there. Laters.”
Should Kobbie Mainoo start against Slovenia?
This would mean, given the changes are like for like, Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka would make way if Scholesy’s changes were to come to fruition.
Mainoo is obviously the big talking point from a Manchester United standpoint. Both Conor Collagher and Trent did awful jobs against the Danes, so naturally the Manchester United academy graduate should be next in line to feature.
He would provide complete balance in that midfield and is more likely to be given a chance from the off than Adam Wharton. It rests in Southgate’s hands, and the nation will find out at precisely 7 PM on Tuesday night.