Re-evaluating Trent Alexander-Arnold's Position in England

As England wrapped up their International break with two victories in the group stage of the UEFA National League, Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold might be the biggest winner during the period, who won Player of the Match twice in a row.

Despite recording no goals, the Three Lions’ most goal contributions came from the Reds star. Under the interim manager Lee Carsley, Alexander-Arnold was ignited with increasing playing minutes and playmaking involvement while playing his usual position (right back), creating chances for the team to make goals.

Behind England's smooth finish in the first international break of the season, he is undoubtedly the unsung hero.

Alexander-Arnold Propels England's Attack in the National League

Against Ireland on September 7, England‘s 10th-minute goal came from Alexander-Arnold. He unleashed a long pass to the front after a slight observation around, while Anthony Gordon previously comprehended his intention and sprinted for the ball.

However, his later shot was blocked by Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher who represented the Irish side. Declan Rice then pushed forward with a finish.

Playing in a deep position in the back doesn’t restrict Alexander-Arnold to open fire. As the Three Lions struggled to pierce the net in the first half against Finland this week, he participated in the offense, rocketing two threatening shots (one from the far right and the other from a left-side free kick) eager to break down the deadlock. Unfortunately, the ball just teased the goalmouth and went away.

But the whole squad eventually benefited from the Merseyside star boy, of course, his vision and progressive passing.

In the 56th minute, before regaining possession through Bukayo Saka’s pressing on the right wing, he spotted Harry Kane without defenders around ahead, delivering an immense assist to the captain who later completed a brilliant finish.

Alexander-Arnold made Kane’s night in this match as the captain’s second goal directly related to his another chance creation, giving his captain the best one to celebrate his 100th cap.

Overall in the break, Alexander-Arnold racked up one assist, three tackles won, five duels won and seven chance creations, completing 163 passes (14 long passes). His back-and-forth dynamic dominantly impacted the team.

Euro 2024 Snub and Future Prospects

I know it just happened a few months ago, but most of us still can’t accept the fact that Alexander-Arnold didn’t play a single minute of the Euro 2024 final that the Three Lions dropped to Spain.

It would be more imaginative if former manager Gareth Southgate could plot him appropriately in those crucial tournament matches.

Alexander-Arnold's omission in the event sparked considerable debate and left many fans and analysts questioning the decision.

Known for his technical prowess and vision on the field, Alexander-Arnold has consistently been a key playmaker for both club and country.

Yet, in a surprising move, he faced early substitutions in crucial matches, often while the game was still finely balanced. Despite these decisions, Alexander-Arnold led the team in chances created and progressive passes, further fueling the conversation about whether his exclusion was justified.

One of the most controversial points was Gareth Southgate’s decision to leave Alexander-Arnold out of the squad. Many argued that England lacked four better right-backs than him, and his absence was seen as a pivotal moment for his international career.

This snub, however, could serve as a motivation for Alexander-Arnold to return even stronger, which his recent performances already proved so. 

Alexander-Arnold’s future with the national team appears promising, especially with significant changes in the squad and management. Southgate’s resignation and Kieran Trippier’s retirement have paved the way for Alexander-Arnold to make the right-back position his own.

New manager Carsley has already shown confidence in him, naming him the senior right-back in the squad, which opens new doors for his involvement in the team’s future campaigns.

Furthermore, Alexander-Arnold’s recent performances have demonstrated his growing importance to the team.

Playing in his preferred inverted right-back role, he has been able to step into the midfield and deliver his trademark pinpoint passes, making him an indispensable asset to the squad.

With these developments, it seems that Alexander-Arnold is poised to solidify his position and lead the next generation of England defenders.