Ever since Gareth Southgate dropped Trent Alexander-Arnold from the England squad, the fullback has been on another level. He has been out to prove a point; to make a statement that there is simply no other player capable of what he can produce from right-back. A couple months later and it is fair to say he has proved his statement.
If an on-watching Gareth Southgate does not recognise the quality of Alexander-Arnold after Liverpool’s first win at Old Trafford since 2014 then he must be questioned. The England boss has one of the most talented young players on his hands. He must utilise him.
The Scouse born fullback was everywhere at Old Trafford. Each pass was both precise and phenomenal. He was involved in two of the four goals right in front of Gareth Southgate. The win showcased both Alexander-Arnold’s talent and Liverpool’s character in their fight for top four.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: A Must Have Player for England
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Dragging Liverpool Back Into Top Four Contention
After six consecutive defeats at Anfield, Liverpool looked down and out in the top four race. The injuries caught up to them as did their own tactical failings. But ever since the international break, Trent Alexander-Arnold has helped to drag them back into contention.
He scored the crucial winning goal against Aston Villa, assisted in a win against Arsenal and was involved in two goals at Old Trafford. When he is at his best, Liverpool create chance after chance and, eventually, secure the three points. Where most players would drop their heads after England omission, Trent Alexander-Arnold has risen to reach a level similar to last season.
Against Manchester United, the fullback had the most ball recoveries(14), the most chances created(five), and registered an assist to cap off a superb performance. It was a must-win game for the Reds and a scouser helped to drag them to it. Where have we heard that before?
Nat Phillips Stepping up With Class
When Nat Phillips first came into the Liverpool game, many were left questioning if he was the man for the job. Yet, months later, and, despite scoring an own goal, stood tall to create the equaliser and help, quite literally, head Liverpool to victory.
The win over Manchester United was Klopp’s first at Old Trafford, which is a strange stat when considering the side he took their last season. Last campaign, he had a full strength side. This time around, he had two centre-backs who never even featured last season.
With the resources at his disposal, Klopp has managed to take Liverpool back into the race for a Champions League place. With three games to go, the Anfield crowd could be left with something to really chant for.
Final Three Crucial for Liverpool
With top four on the line and Chelsea and Leicester City set to play each other, Liverpool’s fate may well end up in their own hands. The Reds have West Bromwich Albion, Burnley and Crystal Palace at home left to play.
In comparison, Leicester City have Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have Leicester and Aston Villa.
The odds are in Liverpool’s favour. Now, they have to take advantage and rescue the season once and for all.
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