England manager Gareth Southgate has insisted that Trent Alexander-Arnold will continue playing in midfield for the Three Lions if Liverpool persist with him in that role too.
Alexander-Arnold was England’s standout player in their 4-0 win at Malta in Euro 2024 qualifying on Friday night.
The 24-year-old was instrumental in the buildup to the opener – an own goal from Ferdinando Apap – while he added England’s second of the evening with a scintillating strike from range.
Towards the end of the 2022/23 season, Jurgen Klopp opted to move Alexander-Arnold into midfield when Liverpool had possession, though he continued starting as a right-back.
Southgate has followed this up by playing him in central midfield from the off on Friday, with Alexander-Arnold donning the number 10 shirt for good measure.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Southgate said that Alexander-Arnold’s position in the England lineup will hinge on where he plays at Liverpool.
“A lot of what happens is going to be dependent on his club, because the fact he has been playing partly in there, with the ball, has helped his transition tonight,” Southgate said.
“What was pleasing tonight is that he’s getting used to receiving in tight areas with his back to goal and players behind him, whereas he is used to playing on the touchline, with the play in front of him. He was very comfortable doing that.
“I’ve got no questions in my head. He can do it. It’s just learning some nuances of the role, without the ball especially, but he’s very keen to do it.
“He has enjoyed the project, if you like. We talked about it about four weeks ago on the phone and I think he’s been excited by it.
“He showed exactly what we think he could be capable of and he gives us something different to our other midfield players.”
Alexander-Arnold admitted to Channel 4 post-match that he is enjoying life in his new role and is looking forward to continuing in midfield.
“It’s still early doors, I haven’t played it too much, but it feels comfortable, natural,” he said.
“It’s somewhere I enjoy playing and where I can see myself playing. It’s about getting myself into this team and trying to be a regular name on the teamsheet.
“Today was a good foundation to build on. I’m not too bothered where I play as long as I’m playing.”
