Sam Allardyce has claimed that Trent Alexander-Arnold has never been taught how to defend as uncertainty continues over whether Gareth Southgate will select the Liverpool full-back for the next World Cup.
The Scouser has been praised in recent seasons for redefining the right-back position somewhat, but after experiencing a poor start to the campaign for Jurgen Klopp’s side, serious concerns were raised about the 24-year-old’s defensive ability.
However, the former Everton manager praised the England international, while discussing the form of other Three Lions defenders who could head into the tournament.
“If everyone is fit, I have to go with the way they are playing now. Trent is not playing very well. I love him, he is an amazing footballer, but nobody has taught him how to defend, I have said it before. He is not as important as he was in our days, in our days he was the most important thing, but now he is secondary,” Allardyce told No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast (via HITC).
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Alexander-Arnold has three goals in 19 appearances for the FA Cup champions this term but is yet to register an assist.
With his outrageous passing ability and world-class delivery from set pieces, it’s surprising he has yet to create a goal for his team this season.
His attacking threat has always outmatched his defensive prowess and he can be an important weapon for Southgate’s side if he is selected to travel to the Middle East.
For Allardyce to claim that the Academy graduate hasn’t been taught how to defend is a bit puzzling considering that he has won every major trophies possible at club level and has been a mainstay of Klopp’s side since he debuted at the 18 years.
The England boss will name his squad on Thursday and with injuries including Kyle Walker and Reece James, we certainly think the Liverpool man has to be on the plane to Qatar.
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