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Trent Alexander-Arnold gave an honest assessment of his progress in a post-match interview with Sky Sports following Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Leicester.
The right-back was named man of the match by Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, after a display that saw him win a series of one-on-one battles with Foxes winger Harvey Barnes.
Alexander-Arnold also provided a low cross for the first of Wout Faes’ two own goals, but while he is renowned for his attacking threat, his defensive work earned him plaudits at Anfield on Friday.
Alexander-Arnold’s performances were a major talking point ahead of the World Cup, with his role in the England squad hotly debated. He admitted he was aware of the focus but said he was working hard to improve his game.
“Part of me thinks there are a lot of highlights [his defending]”said Alexander-Arnold. “I think it’s because of the World Cup coming up and people think that I’m not playing, so for that reason, people will know.
“Some don’t help me in certain situations. I’ll hold my hand.
“In certain situations I could have done better but that’s part of the game I want to play and I’m focused on trying to help the team win.
“A clean sheet is the most important thing.”
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FREE to watch: Highlights from Liverpool’s win over Leicester in the Premier League.
Discussing the individual defensive drills he took, Alexander-Arnold said: “Defensive situations are teams and individuals one vs one.
“Also, look at your legs, your patterns, if you cross your legs, why someone is beating you and putting you off balance.
“Sometimes you play against world-class wingers, and they will be better than you, but sometimes there are times when you can do better.”
Carra: Trent is a special talent but can still improve
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Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher analyze Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance and how the full-back can improve the defence, Gary Neville’s footwork is well demonstrated!
Carragher was full of praise for Alexander-Arnold’s performance against Leicester – but said that at 24, the “unique” talent could be even better.
“His real defense surprised me because if you usually give Alexander-Arnold players in the match as he has done on many occasions, he crosses forward,” said the expert.
“However, I think he made some important challenges at the back and the cross, although it was nowhere near the best cross, it helped Liverpool to equalise.
“We talked about him going forward, but what impressed me was what he did defensively, especially in the second half.
“What he does well is to catch Harvey Barnes, not to dive and wait for the attacker to make the first move. He is low, aggressive and always ready to change direction.
“Trent mentioned about his legs crossing and that happens when you’re too upright. You can’t change direction and it’s pretty simple about the body position you have to do.
“What you have to remember with Alexander-Arnold is that he is unique. He was never a full-back as a kid, and he has gone there because of his football ability.
“He is a midfielder and a specialist midfielder who will come. But now we know that the full-back position has evolved and you still have to be able to defend, but he is a playmaker from full-back.
“He won’t change. He won’t be the best defender in the world but he can improve and get better. That’s what he did against Leicester.
“Also, we must not forget how young he is and what he has achieved in the game. If he doesn’t do anything in the game, which he will, he still wins everything you can win at club level.
“There’s still a lot he can add, but he’s a special, special talent.”
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