TRENT Alexander-Arnold has been praised for answering his critics by Liverpool under-23s boss Neil Critchley, in the wake of his man of the match performance in the first leg of the Champions League quarter finals.
The right back produced a dominating display in Wednesday night’s 3-0 win over Manchester City, standing up to the task of dealing with the impressive Leroy Sane on a pulsating night at Anfield.
Trent had endured a difficult run of games with opposition teams targeting him as a weak link in Liverpool’s defence, being blamed in some quarters for his part in the concession of goals against Manchester United and Crystal Palace.
As a result, there were fears that the 19-year-old would be exposed in what was undoubtedly the biggest game of his career so far, but he stood up to the task and put in what many believe to be his biggest performance to date.
Critchley, speaking ahead of Liverpool under-23s’ upcoming match against Arsenal, praised Trent’s response to those who doubted him. He said: “I thought it was a really top performance from him. He’s had a bit of criticism recently and I thought he answered his critics in emphatic fashion.
7⃣7⃣ touches
1⃣0⃣ clearances
8⃣ duels won
7⃣ interceptions
4⃣ tackles wonBig game. Big performance from Trent Alexander-Arnold 💪 pic.twitter.com/2bkUAPcW7y
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) 4 April 2018
“He was questioned with what he’s been questioned about – his defending. He had to do a lot of it and I thought he did extremely well. I was delighted for him.”
After his recent interview with The Anfield Wrap, in which he discussed being a local lad and the responsibility he feels towards the community as a result, Trent was credited by many as coming across down to earth and humble, something which Critchley goes along with.
“He still sees himself as one of us. He came through the academy so he still sees himself as part of this sort of family here, I don’t think he sees himself as an established first-team player – yet.
“And I think that is one of the best qualities he has. He doesn’t think he has made it. He doesn’t think ‘I don’t need to listen to you now’. That is what makes him the player he is and hopefully the player he will become.”
The under 23s host Arsenal on Friday, April 6 at Prenton Park, Tranmere at 7pm. Tickets are free for members and season-ticket holders by bringing their cards to the ground. Admission on the gate is £3 for adults and £1 for children and concessions.
Listen to our exclusive interview with Trent Alexander-Arnold for FREE and subscribe to TAW Player for more…
“Me and my brothers would do anything for a player to stop by and sign something for us.” 🎥
“When they did, it made our day. Knowing now I can do that to a kid is a special feeling.” 👊
Listen to our Trent Alexander-Arnold Special for FREE: https://t.co/uTOhui00KH pic.twitter.com/b0u9MuqUsm
— The Anfield Wrap (@TheAnfieldWrap) 2 April 2018
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Pics: David Rawcliffe-Propaganda Photo
