There’s also a debut for Patrick Bamford up front.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to get his first start in midfield for England, with the starting lineup for their World Cup qualifier against Andorra having been announced.
Before the European Championships this summer, Gareth Southgate had floated the idea of Alexander-Arnold having the capability and talent to play in midfield as oppose to his usual position of full back, and we’re set to get our first glimpse of this experiment this evening, albeit against minnows Andorra.
Given the number 4, TAA starts alongside Jude Bellingham and Jordan Henderson in what looks like a three man midfield. There is a rare start for Sam Johnstone in goal, with the West Brom man behind a back four of Reece James, Conor Coady, Tyrone Mings and Kieran Trippier.
Up front, Patrick makes his debut for the Three Lions on his 28th birthday, with Bukayo Saka starting as well. It’s his birthday as well today and he turns 20, making his first appearance at Wembley since his penalty miss against Italy.
There is also a return to the starting lineup for Jesse Lingard, who narrowly missed out on making the final squad for the Euros this summer.
Your #ThreeLions to take on Andorra at @wembleystadium! 🦁 pic.twitter.com/HdGiH0PBNK
— England (@England) September 5, 2021
The match on Sunday marks the first time that England will play in front of their home fans since that fateful night in July, when England lost on penalties to Italy in the European Championship final.
It really should be an incredibly comfortable return to Wembley for them as well. With a 100% record so far in their World Cup qualifying group, England take on Andorra, a nation with a population smaller than Burnley and are ranked 156th in the world.
Anything other than an extremely handsome win at Wembley for Southgate’s men will be a huge surprise.
Related links:
England players booed for taking the knee by Hungary supporters
Mason Greenwood left out of first England squad since Euro 2020
Gareth Southgate calls for protection for his players after abuse against Hungary
