Pundit Paul Merson has suggested that Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold hasn’t improved in a long time.
Speaking on Sky Sports News yesterday (1:56pm, March 18, 2023), the former Arsenal player claimed the 24-year-old isn’t fully comfortable with his position as a full-back – which he transitioned to when moving up to Jurgen Klopp’s first-team.
“You have been right-back now for one of the best teams in the whole world,” said Merson.
“It hasn’t got any better, and I don’t see how that works.
“But I do [enjoy] watching him play.”
Merson says Trent hasn’t improved
At this point, everyone has had their say on Alexander-Arnold’s form this season.
While he certainly hasn’t been at his best, he has been scapegoated for Liverpool’s defensive woes. In reality, the vast majority of the team have been bad.
Going forward, the 24-year-old has established himself as one of the best full-backs in world football.
He has become known for his incredible passing ability, having developed as a playmaker from the back.
However, many commentators have criticised his defensive play.
At times, he seems to switch off and lose his man. Additionally, he can also get caught out of position.
This can be attributed to lapses in concentration, but also due to the fact that he is left very isolated at right-back.
Gini Wijnaldum used to provide brilliant cover for Alexander-Arnold when he went bombing on down the wing.
Since his departure, the midfield are yet to pick up this role, and with Mohamed Salah often failing to track back, the defender is left to fend for himself.
Therefore, any criticism he receives often goes over the top.