Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool boss' reaction to Alexander-Arnold England snub | OneFootball

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·30 September 2022

Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool boss' reaction to Alexander-Arnold England snub

Article image:Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool boss' reaction to Alexander-Arnold England snub

Jurgen Klopp has given his views on Trent Alexander-Arnold being overlooked by Gareth Southgate in England’s most recent set of fixtures.

The England boss selected four right backs as part of his Nations League squad: Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier.


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However, controversially opted not to give Alexander-Arnold a single minute of action, even omitting him from the squad all together against Germany.

In the eyes of many it was a bizarre call from Southgate. England had been struggling for goals prior to bagging three in quick succession against Germany, therefore the creative ability of the Liverpool star seemed like a no brainer.

Despite being just 23, Alexander-Arnold has already got 45 Premier League assists to his name and has long been second only to Kevin De Bruyne as the league’s best creator.

But it seems Southgate just hasn’t taken to him, potentially because he views him as a weak link defensively.

Jurgen Klopp on Southgate’s treatment of Alexander-Arnold

The treatment of Alexander-Arnold has angered many. None more so than his loyal boss Klopp.

The German was asked about Southgate’s decision not to use Alexander-Arnold and he didn’t seem best impressed with the matter.

“Do we really want to open this box? You are English journalists, and we cannot discuss selections until the World Cup starts,” Klopp said in the press conference.

“This is why you make massive things of this. My honest opinion would create headlines. You want that? It would maybe help Germany, but it wouldn’t help England.

“I have a lot of things to say but I don’t think it makes sense.

“We are fine here, it’s completely different. I see Trent differently, that’s clear.

“People talk about him not being a good defender, that’s not true, he is a good defender, he doesn’t always defend good, that’s true. He’s 23. We’re working on it.

“Whatever team I would have at the moment; I would pick Trent. He is exceptional.

Article image:Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool boss' reaction to Alexander-Arnold England snub

“England are blessed with players in this position. Reece James can play three at the back, did that well for Chelsea.

“It’s Gareth’s decision. He made it. I see it different. Doesn’t mean right/wrong.”

Well, we know where Klopp stands on the matter and it’s no surprise that he’s leapt to the defence of his young superstar.

But how has Alexander-Arnold taken the whole thing? Klopp opted to shed some light on that matter, too.

“Trent came back not in a party mood but he accepts the manager’s decision because he is extremely bright.

“The manager decides and more often than not here it is the case he is picked. It’s clear, he’s a world-class player.”

It’s great to hear that Alexander-Arnold hasn’t taken the hit too hard.

He’s been out of form so far this season, sure, but at the same time he has probably been England’s best right back for the couple of years prior.

And if there’s one thing we are absolutely certain of, it’s that Alexander-Arnold has to be on the plane to Qatar come November.

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