Alexander-Arnold to face Costa Rica

TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD is set to make his England debut against Costa Rica on Thursday night. The Liverpool defender is in line to play some part in England’s final friendly before they depart for the World Cup as Gareth Southgate is keen to give the 19-year-old an opportunity before the tournament starts. The England manager wants to ensure the uncapped Alexander-Arnold has a taste of international football before England’s opening game against Tunisia. However, Tottenham’s Kieran Trippier is likely to start at the World Cup as England’s right wing-back. The 27-year-old was one of England’s best performers against Nigeria on Saturday, with his delivery from out wide being very impressive. But a positive display from Alexander-Arnold at Elland Road against the Central Americans could give Southgate something to think about. The manager is likely to use a very similar starting XI against Tunisia to the one he deployed against Nigeria. Crucially, Gary Cahill’s goalscoring display could see him keep his place ahead of Harry Maguire and Phil Jones on June 18. The manager also faces the dilemma of choosing between Eric Dier and Liverpool’s Jordan Henderson for the defensive midfield role. However, he could use both of them for the final group game against a more adventurous Belgium and during the latter stages should England get there. But the impetus will be on England to attack against Tunisia and their other group stage opponents Panama, which is why Southgate is considering fielding just one holding midfielder in those games. Meanwhile, England will confirm shirt numbers for the World Cup today.