Trent Alexander-Arnold was far from his best again in Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Brighton, with fans left concerned about his current form.
Jurgen Klopp’s men returned after a 17-day break, with high hopes that a strong performance was expected.
Instead, an unlucky opening saw Leandro Trossard score twice for Brighton, with Anfield nearly speechless by what they were watching.
However, Roberto Firmino reduced the delays before half time, before brilliantly scoring his second goal after the break.
Adam Webster’s own goal put Liverpool in front, but Trossard completed his hat-trick after even more sloppy defending to give the visitors a deserved point.
Alexander-Arnold was among those who struggled, amid scrutiny over his form for club and country, with fans voicing their concerns on Twitter.
As much as he insists otherwise, Jurgen Klopp has a big problem with Trent Alexander-Arnold.
I also can’t argue with Gareth Southgate at the moment.
— Jack Lusby (@LusbyJack) October 1, 2022
Trent man. Christ thought he might want to try something. Both goals.
— Graeme Kelly (@GraemeKelly1) October 1, 2022
Don’t worry, Trent is in abysmal shape right now. It is a tough watch.
He’s world class, and all the players have tough streaks, but it would be a mistake to overlook him.
Completely and utterly beside himself.
— Henry Jackson (@HenryJackson87) October 1, 2022
I’ve seen enough of Henderson’s decline and Trent’s defensive limitations to think we should put Trent in that right-side 8 position. Gomez on the right side.
Something radical needs to be done as we persevere with players who can’t play in the system we’re using now.
— Jay (@Jay82_LFC) October 1, 2022
Buy a right side. He plays Trent in midfield.
There. i said it
— LFC Mumble (@lfcmumble) October 1, 2022
The fall of Trent is so sad to see, man.
— Sports spice??? (@MasegoLFC) October 1, 2022
I’ve never seen such a disastrous class at a performance today as Trent’s. Absolutely shocking #LFC
— Thomas_bigwood (@thomasbigwood) October 1, 2022
Trent has had a mare on the right side. Protection from midfield has been non-existent, yes.
I hate that I’m starting to dislike a lot of my football heroes.
— Jay (@Jay82_LFC) October 1, 2022
These Mane screams are rare. Our midfield is dead. Trent’s confidence is a big deal.
— DilzLFC? (@DilzLFC) October 1, 2022
Trent needs to be massively resolved
-IKI?? (@lfc_ik4) October 1, 2022
For all of Klopp’s defense of Alexander-Arnold this week, and his general poor treatment by Gareth Southgate, there is no doubt that he is in woeful shape.
The 23-year-old was poor for Trossard’s first two goals and looked hesitant on the ball and reeling all afternoon.
In truth, Alexander-Arnold could use a spell off the side, but with Calvin Ramsay just back from injury and still an untested teenager, that seems unlikely.
He will overcome this slump, as all great players do, but this is a shadow of the player who has lit Anfield up for the last four years or so.
