Former English player Gary Neville believes Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance against the Spurs highlights why he can’t be trusted for England at the World Cup.
What did Neville say about Trent Alexander-Arnold?
Despite the weaknesses of the English defender from behind, the Reds grabbed a decisive 1-2 victory against Tottenham in their battle for the top four. Right back’s qualities – both good and bad – were on display for all to see at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with a collection of stunning long runs going alongside some less than convincing one-on-one battles. With the World Cup just a few weeks away, ex-England international Gary Neville wondered what these performances could mean for England this winter.
The former England defender said it’s really tough with Trent Alexander-Arnold. According to Gary Neville, his brilliance going forward is out of this world. But they talk about knockout football. Whether England win or lose the World Cup, it will come down to moments. The mistake is concentration. At this point in time, Neville doesn’t see how Gareth Southgate can go into knockout play in the World Cup playing Alexander-Arnold.
Gary says that at times at Tottenham Trent Alexander-Arnold looked like he could cost Liverpool dearly. At the World Cup, Neville thinks he’s giving away a penalty. Gary doesn’t think Southgate will trust him with a knockout game. “What do you mean, then he’ll take it? If he’s got four shiny backs, will he go?” he said.
A little about the topic
The Alexander-Arnold selection debate has been raging since England’s last major tournament thanks to the many options available to Southgate right on the back. However, with recent injuries to Kyle Walker and Rhys James, the Liverpool star looks to have the best chance of competing in Qatar 2022 despite Gary’s doubts.
The England national team right-back will find his fate when Gareth releases his final England squad for the World Cup on Thursday. The day before, Trent Alexander-Arnold and his Reds teammates host Derby County in the Carabao Cup.