Kieron Dyer has praised the qualities of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, hailing his technique as "the best since David Beckham".
And former England international Dyer believes the Anfield right-back should have been selected for the Three Lions' 0-0 draw with the USA, instead of watching from the bench.
Alexander-Arnold is part of the 26-man squad that Gareth Southgate took to Qatar for the World Cup - a group which has since been reduced to 25 following the withdrawal of Arsenal's Ben White. So far, the Liverpool favourite has been limited to a 33-minute run-out as a substitute against Wales in the final group stage match.
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But former Newcastle United full-back Dyer, who earned 33 caps for England, insists that Alexander-Arnold's attacking qualities should be harnessed whenever possible, even if that means sharing the position with the squad's other right-backs.
Speaking on the True Geordie podcast, Dyer said: “I’ve heard everyone [saying] what Trent can’t do, what Trent can’t do. We never embrace what players can do. What can he do? Could you imagine him against USA the other night? You’re talking about Harry Kane - got two touches of the ball inside the penalty box, starved.
“I’ve never seen technique like it since David Beckham. And this is from a right-back. He’s incredible going forward, but all we seem to do is bash him [for] what he can’t do. Okay, if you’re that worried, you weigh it up and you’re going, okay, he might get us a goal, but he might lose us two goals. I can understand that against a Brazil or a Spain. But when it’s USA, Wales – come on, get Trent on the pitch.”
Despite being one of Liverpool's most decorated players at the age of 24, Alexander-Arnold has come under fire for his performances this season and was seemingly not a certain selection for the England squad until Chelsea's Reece James was ruled out with an injury.
The Reds' right-back will be part of the squad that faces Senegal in the round of 16 on Sunday evening, as England look to go deep into the tournament.
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