In the lead-up to the World Cup, alternatives to Harry Maguire who remains on the bench are slowly emerging for Gareth Southgate. For a very long time, the manager of England’s national team had faith in Manchester United’s centre back. However, a number of English media outlets claim that Liverpool defender Joe Gomez’s play could abruptly reshuffle the deck.
Gomez shared the man of the match award with Virgil van Dijk on Sunday in Liverpool’s premier match against Manchester City. The 25-year-old Englishman did an amazing job of following the irrepressible Erling Haaland. Gomez had not played at such a high level since suffering a catastrophic knee injury two years prior.
Alternatives to Harry Maguire, Gomez has long been a favourite of Southgate’s
Gomez has long been a favourite of Southgate’s. Prior to his injury, the national coach frequently selected him for the team and even gave him eleven opportunities to play in international contests. Southgate appreciates the defender’s versatility in particular. Gomez can defend on the right or the centre.
Maguire’s second-place finish at Old Trafford under Erik ten Hag’s leadership appears to pave the door for Gomez to receive a trip to Qatar. Particularly considering that Manchester City right defender Kyle Walker’s World Cup readiness is still in doubt, while Chelsea player Reece James has already declared his tournament over.
Additionally, Southgate doesn’t appear confident in Walker’s ability to become fit in time. He has already sent his deputy Steve Holland to Anfield to keep an eye on Gomez as a result. After two years, the defender unexpectedly became a viable option for The Three Lions. After making an impression in the fight with Haaland. England has ties to Wales, Iran, and the United States in Qatar.
It will be interesting to see if the Englishman is able to hold on to his favoured position in a central position. Considering, Klopp has alternatives in the form of Joel Matip and Ibou Konate.
