Liverpool fans have long yearned for the next local talent to break into the senior team from the club’s famous academy. Since the likes of Steve McManaman, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard made the grade, many have tried and failed, to become the next Liverpudlian to establish a place in the club’s first team. Next in line is highly rated right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Set to be the Next Successful Liverpool Academy Graduate
The 18-year old broke into the first team towards the start of last season, making his debut in the 2-1 league cup victory over Tottenham Hotspur. He impressed before being replaced by first choice right back Nathaniel Clyne. He kept his place in the team for the following League Cup game against Leeds United. He assisted a goal for team mate Divock Origi with a superb cross, whilst also deservedly picking up the man of the match award. Alexander-Arnold then retained his place in the team for all of the club’s remaining League Cup fixtures with the exception of the first leg of the semi-final against Southampton.
Although the majority of his performances have come in cup competitions, Alexander-Arnold has also been given a number of opportunities in the league. Most coming from the bench in the latter stages of games.
First Start
The most notable of his performances was his first Premier League start against Manchester United at Old Trafford. After a difficult start against United forward Anthony Martial, he grew into the game. He showed his attacking capabilities, whilst also defending superbly to keep Martial quiet. The maturity showed by the youngster to rise above the intimidating atmosphere of Old Trafford shows he has the mental strength to match his exceptional talents.
Clyne recovered for the next game, however, and remained free from injury for the remainder of the season, meaning Alexander-Arnold’s start’s were limited. Most of his subsequent appearances coming in the latter stages of league games.
Coming Off the Bench
Alexander-Arnold’s impressive cameo’s from the bench led to him being awarded a start on the wide right of midfield for the key Premier League encounter with Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium. However, he was replaced at half-time for Roberto Firmino, having struggled to make an impression on the game.
Despite the disappointment for the right-back, it is clear that opportunities will once again come his way as he possesses all the attributes required to become a premier league level right back. In attack, he has the speed and an eye for goal, as well as good crossing ability. He is also very dependable defensively, being a tenacious tackler and a good reader of the game. At the tender age of 18 years, he is likely to keep improving.
Attacking Ability
Such is the attacking ability he possesses, many think that Alexander-Arnold’s talents would be wasted if he was to spend his career playing right back. After all, Gerrard spent time during his early years at Anfield playing right back before being moved to his customary central midfield position. This is a transition which Liverpool supporters believe could possibly occur with Alexander-Arnold. However, the current indications are that Alexander-Arnold will remain at right back, given that he played the whole of last season there for the club’s under 21 side, as well as England’s under 19 side.
The Scouser’s form was impeccable for both teams last season and he was later deservedly awarded the Liverpool Young Player of the Season award.
England Under 19s
One of the most impressive feats of Alexander-Arnold’s footballing career to date are his performances for the England Under 19’s side. He has scored an incredible 7 goals in 8 games, including three braces, all of which have come from right back. Should he continue this form then progression to the England U21 side will not be far away.
If Alexander-Arnold continues to impress then he may threaten first choice right-back Clyne. Although Clyne is a solid enough defender, his attacking contribution is largely limited at times. This is not seemingly the case when Alexander-Arnold takes the field, with his ability to support in attack being one of the key attributes of his rather large skill set. Even if he fails to displace Clyne as starter under Jurgen Klopp, then he will still certainly be capable of remaining a suitable back-up option to the England International.
Looking Forward
He will be sure to get plenty of game time at Liverpool this season with European football and both domestic cup competitions. Thus avoiding any need for a loan move elsewhere for first team football.
Should he continue his impressive development, it certainly seems a matter of time before Nathaniel Clyne’s position in the starting line-up will be under threat. Alexander-Arnold would then fully establish himself as the next Scouse Academy graduate to cement a place in the first team.
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