England boss Gareth Southgate has shared his positive assessment of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who played in midfield during England’s 2-0 victory against Malta in European Championship Qualifying Group C.
Despite an unconvincing win for the already qualified Three Lions, Alexander-Arnold’s performance was outstanding.
Southgate praised Alexander-Arnold’s exceptional quality, highlighting him and Phil Foden as players who appeared capable of opening up the game in the first half.
“He has got outstanding quality. He and Phil [Foden] were the two in the first half that looked like opening the game up for us.” Said Southgate on Channel 4.
The Liverpool right-back, typically known for his defensive role, showcased versatility by starting in midfield and playing the full 90 minutes.
During the match, Alexander-Arnold demonstrated his skills, taking four shots with two on target, playing a key pass, maintaining a pass accuracy of 92.3%, taking 109 touches, attempting two dribbles, making one interception and one clearance, and delivering one cross.
While acknowledging that it might not have been his best midfield performance, it’s noteworthy that Alexander-Arnold is relatively new to this position, having traditionally played as a right-back.
Despite his transition to midfield, Alexander-Arnold displayed liveliness and precision in his passing, reminiscent of his contributions to Liverpool.
At 25 years old, with over 200 Premier League appearances as a right-back, he continues to evolve in his new midfield role, and Southgate believes he will only improve with time.
Alexander-Arnold’s Premier League career stats include 12 goals, 55 assists, and 65 clean sheets in 208 appearances.
