Trent: 'A good foundation to build on'

Written by:

Nicholas Veevers

Trent Alexander-Arnold admits he’s enjoying a new lease of life with England, after finding himself in a midfield role for Friday’s win over Malta.

The Liverpool player, who was originally capped as a midfielder in England’s development teams as a teenager, went on to establish himself for both club and country as a right-back.

In recent months, he’s reverted back to a midfield role at Anfield and was also utilised in that role by Gareth Southgate as England’s good start to UEFA EURO 2024 qualifying continued with a 4-0 win.

And Alexander-Arnold capped off his display with a first-half goal to put the Three Lions in control at the break.

“I enjoyed it,” said Trent, after the game.

“I love playing football, I love being on the pitch, I love playing for my country, so to be out there and play the full 90, I was happy.

“It’s still early doors. I haven’t played it [midfield role] too much, but it feels comfortable and it feels natural, that’s what I will say.

“It’s somewhere I enjoy playing and I can see myself playing as well. For me, it’s about getting myself into my team and trying to be a regular name on the team sheet. I think today was a good foundation to build on.

“I’m one of those players who can be used in a number of positions. That helps you get on the teamsheet and helps you get minutes.

“For me, I’m not too bothered where I play, as long as I am playing. I try to bring what I bring to the game which is creativity, creating chances and goals, and also do a stint defensively as well. No matter what position I’m playing, I’ll give it my all and I’ll try and win the game.”

With strong competition from the likes of Kieran Trippier and Reece James at right-back limiting Alexander-Arnold’s international appearances since his debut back in 2018, the Anfield ace admits it’s not always been easy.

But he also feels Three Lions boss Southgate has kept the faith in trying to facilitate him in a system with the national team.

“I think the manager has always tried to find a way to get me into the team, and with the quality of players that have been in the positions I play in, it has been difficult,” he added.

“But I think definitely with the way I’ve been playing club football, it’s opened a new avenue for me.

“Hopefully it’s an option he’ll use and one he’ll want to use a lot. It’s still early doors, just one game - it’s about making sure when I do get the opportunities, I take it, and hopefully tonight was a good foundation to build on.”