Roy Keane rips into Gareth Southgate decision that leaves Kobbie Mainoo out of England’s XI

Roy Keane has ripped into a decision Gareth Southgate may make for England during the 2024 European Championships that may leave Kobbie Mainoo out of England’s team.

Reports in the last few days have claimed that Gareth Southgate will consider playing Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield as England face Serbia in their opening game of the 2024 European Championships in Germany.

Of course, this would leave Manchester United‘s Kobbie Mainoo out of the team, with Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham almost certain starters for the tie.

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Roy Keane, former United midfielder and club legend, has blasted the decision, explaining that he feels that Alexander-Arnold would be “found out” against bigger sides.

“I think they’ll be fine in the group stage,” Keane said on ITV ahead of the fixture, set to kick off on Sunday evening.

“I think Trent’s position will be fine in those matches, but it’s against the real top teams I think he’ll be found out.

“I think he’ll be ripped to shreds if he plays against one of the better teams in central midfield.”

Keane then added: “It’s all about getting the balance right in your team.

“They’ve got some brilliant individuals. We’ve mentioned that many times before. Four or five players who would walk into any team at this tournament, but it’s getting that balance right.

“They (England) have players who can go and win you football matches, but the problem is defending against the really better teams.”

Although Alexander-Arnold has proved he is a fantastic on-the-ball player, Rice and Mainoo have already proven that they can work well for England as a duo in midfield – Southgate should trust this.

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