“I asked him why he was benching Kobbie Mainoo because I loved playing with him but this is what he told me and I feltheartbroken “-Declan Rice reveals thee reason why Gareth Southgate keeps snubbing Kobbie Mainoo for Conor Gallagher for England clash which left them confused.⁹l

I’m sorry for any confusion earlier. Here’s the paraphrased version of the text you provided:

Declan Rice has given insight into what he believes England will improve in their next game, suggesting reasons why Kobbie Mainoo might not be starting.

With four points from their first two matches, England is getting ready for their final group stage fixture at Euro 2024 against Slovenia. However, the football played by Gareth Southgate’s team has raised concerns, and it appears the manager is uncertain about his best lineup for the first time in many tournaments.

After experimenting with Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, it seemed Southgate might include Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo or Crystal Palace’s standout Adam Wharton. However, recent reports from David Ornstein suggest Southgate intends to replace the Liverpool right-back with Conor Gallagher. This decision has surprised many supporters, especially those who witnessed Mainoo excel last season at Old Trafford.

Declan Rice seems to have explained Southgate’s rationale for this approach. Speaking to ITV before England’s final group game, the Arsenal midfielder defended Southgate’s tactics in the opening matches, particularly their defensive strategy.

Rice acknowledged adjustments in training this week. “I think tactically, we’ve been outstanding in our low block,” he said. “Defensively, we’ve allowed the fewest shots on goal, according to Steve Holland. We have the best defensive record here in terms of stopping crosses, defending balls into the box, being compact, and solid. It’s about executing that higher up the pitch, and that’s something I’ve experienced with England for a long time.

“I understand why people feel we’ve been tactically off. There have been a few tweaks in training that have made me feel much more confident. I’m sure you’ll see that in the game as well.”

When discussing aspects he’s confident will improve, Rice said, “Everyone is talking about our high press and our off-the-ball play. You will see a team that is more aggressive, more pressing. We won’t allow the opposition as much time on the ball. We will demonstrate that we have that aspect to our game.”

Southgate’s focus on improving play out of possession explains his decision to bring in a hard-working midfielder like Gallagher. While fans and pundits have criticized England’s possession game, particularly with Alexander-Arnold in midfield, Southgate appears reluctant to proceed with a midfielder focused on ball control.

Both Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton might be wondering what more they need to do to earn a place in the team. Southgate may only realize this too late