Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold are in the fight to be England’s starting right-back.
Gareth Southgate has selection headaches throughout his talented England team — but deciding who starts at right-back is becoming a migraine.( Getty Images)
The Three Lions are blessed with world-class options at right-back and there is much debate about who should be at the top of the pecking order, especially with the World Cup in Qatar fast approaching.
Reece James competes with Kyle Walker, and Trent Alexander-Arnold for the starting berth with Gareth Southgate giving each of them a chance to start during England’s Nations League campaign.
When asked about his chances of being England’s right-back first choice, this is what James had to say:
‘I’ll try everything I can [to be first choice],’ said James, who started against Italy.
‘Only my performances will be able to prove what I can bring. In these games and building into next season I’ll hopefully be able to show that I’m ready to play every game.’
One of the men that Reece James competes with for the starting berth is Trent Alexander-Arnold – who’s has faced a lot of criticism for his defensive frailty.
Despite being a wonderful creator and ball-player, the 23-year-old has often come under constant criticism for his lack of defensive awareness and has struggled to find a place in the Southgate’s system.
But, his England teammate Reece James, who earned his 12th England cap when starting a 0-0 UEFA Nations League draw with Italy, has finally put to bed the criticism of his fellow fullback as per Daily Mail.
‘I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary so we are both still learning our trade,’ said James.
‘Liverpool have 95 per cent of the ball and he defends less than I have to. People have a lot of stuff to say and don’t really know the game. Trent is a great player.’
Reece James has established himself as Chelsea’s first-choice in his position following a productive loan spell at Wigan Athletic. He has made 123 appearances in all competitions for the Blues, scoring nine goals and providing 18 assists.
England will be back in action against Hungary on Tuesday, and have further Nations League fixtures against Italy and Germany to come in September before opening their 2022 World Cup campaign against Iran on November 21.