Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp has responded to criticism received by Trent Alexander-Arnold following his poor form this season. On Thursday, the 24-year-old was selected for Gareth Southgate’s England World Cup squad, but he has drawn criticism for errors he made while playing for Liverpool this year. However, Klopp retaliated ahead of their final Premier League game before the World Cup on Saturday against Southampton, pointing out to Alexander-Arnold’s detractors that he already has a number of championship medals in his trophy case.
“I don’t see how Gareth can face Trent Alexander-Arnold in a World Cup,” Jurgen Klopp said. “Trent understands that aside from playing football, he has little influence [in the squad selection], but I didn’t speak to him about the England call-up because I have known him for a long enough time. These kinds of topics are frequently discussed. I overheard Gary Neville say that he can’t participate in knockout games during the big games. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is now 24 years old, has won numerous finals, which are crucial games in which you must defend.”
“He has competed in finals against elite opponents that are unquestionably superior to those they will face at the World Cup, such as Chelsea last year in a heated final,” he added. “He also consistently provided strong defense. I’m not sure why we’re having this conversation, but it’s okay. I’m not sure he was unsure, but based on all the conversations—or at least the conversations I listened to—you probably wouldn’t pick four right-backs if everyone had been available. I’m not sure why we’re having this conversation, but it’s okay. When given the option of four or five players—[Kyle] Walker is somewhat fit, and Reece James is plainly unavailable—I believe Gareth is delighted to have Trent on board.”
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