Keane: Alexander-Arnold will be 'ripped to shreds' if he plays in midfield

Roy Keane has warned that Trent Alexander-Arnold could get 'ripped apart' if he plays in midfield for England during the latter stages of Euro 2024.

Although he is still mainly deployed as a right-back for Liverpool, it is expected that Alexander-Arnold could start in midfield in England's first game of the tournament against Serbia on Sunday.

Keane expressed his belief that playing Alexander-Arnold in midfield could disrupt the balance of the team.

He added that while Alexander-Arnold is capable of performing well in the group stages, the 25-year-old could struggle in midfield against the toughest opponents.

Speaking on ITV, Keane said: '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.

'I think they'll be fine in the groups, 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.'

Alexander-Arnold, who has 25 England caps, has had to wait some time to get a chance to fully establish himself in the team.

He barely featured at the World Cups in 2018 and 2022, while he missed Euro 2020 after suffering an injury just before the tournament started.

After facing Serbia, England will take on Denmark and Slovenia in their remaining two group stage fixtures.