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Micah Richards raves about what he’s now seeing from ‘wonderful’ Liverpool player

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Liverpool have a ‘special talent’ on their hands as Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to excel in his new position.

That’s according to Micah Richards, who was covering the Reds clash with Brentford today on Sky Sports. Asked about Alexander-Arnold’s recent shift to midfield before Liverpool’s 1-0 win, Richards said he’d been pleased with what he’s seen.

“I think it’s wonderful, because when you’ve got a player with that sort of special talent, you have to accommodate what’s best for the team,” he said. “He has six assists in six games, it allows him to focus on more what he’s good at than what he’s not.”

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Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images

However, Richards did also suggest that Trent’s shift in position hasn’t come without its issues for Liverpool.

“I do think having the centre-back there as well leaves you a bit exposed,” he continued. “But Konate has the pace to deal with that position. As a centre-back you find yourself in areas you wouldn’t normally be and having to get there, so the centre-back is always covering the full-back and having to get there early. I remember a couple of games ago Van Dijk had to go really across and ended up on the floor, because you’re not used to being in those positions and it can expose the centre-backs

Trent continues in new role

Another game, another chance to see Trent in the Liverpool midfield. At the moment, watching the 24-year-old is one of the very best things about tuning in to a Reds match.

Although Jurgen Klopp went with an attacking line-up today, Trent kept his place in the middle. It’s another sign that this tactical switch isn’t going anywhere.

Liverpool FC v Brentford FC - Premier League
Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

The Scouser wasn’t been quite as influential as we’ve seen him of late. But he just offers such an outlet for Liverpool when in possession.

This afternoon was also a big test for Konate in his own new, duel role. Up against one of the league’s form strikers in Ivan Toney, it was a tough ask for Ibou. But although there were one or two hiccups, the Frenchman largely managed well. With Trent showing he’s still adept at tucking in too, it was a good show of how this system can work.

Although Richards’ point about Liverpool being open is fair enough, today showed that they can see games out. Brentford pushed hard and really made the Reds work.

But Liverpool fought through it, with Trent continuously showing for the ball, and keeping the Bees out at the other end. Job done and onto the next one. If Liverpool are to keep up their winning streak, Alexander-Arnold will be key.