Danny Murphy has claimed Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold could miss out on England’s World Cup squad if he does not address his weaknesses.
Alexander-Arnold has been the target of criticism for his recent performances for Liverpool - particularly in Wednesday's 4-1 Champions League defeat at Napoli in which he and Joe Gomez were badly exposed. And while Murphy believes the Reds' No.66 has the 'X-factor' that his rivals for the England right-back spot lack, he feels there is a danger he won't be on the plane to Qatar. However, the former Anfield hero doe believe the youngster's 'issues' can be 'easily resolved'.
“Trent Alexander-Arnold dropped below his usual high standards against Manchester United and Napoli and faces a challenge to be picked for the World Cup,” former Liverpool midfielder Murphy told the Daily Mail . “He has to look at his positional play and smell danger a bit quicker. He has been given free rein for a long time but he should protect himself better, even if it means sacrificing some forward runs.
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"Liverpool have looked complacent this season but I don’t mean players failing to give 100 per cent. It’s more a lack of sharpness or failing to do the basics when you’ve not had any competition for your position. I sometimes slid into the comfort zone and needed a jolt. I’m not saying Trent is the same but the coaches at Liverpool could spend more time with him analysing the defensive parts of his game that need work. He is a good listener so his issues are easily resolved. Small details can make a big difference.
“Right-back is one of the hardest positions to call with England because of competition from Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Reece James. Trent has an X-factor his rivals don’t possess but he has to look at their qualities so he can become more rounded.”
England boss Gareth Southgate will name his squad for the final round of Nations League matches - against Italy and Germany - next Thursday.
Alexander-Arnold, who missed Euro 2020 through injury, may only have one more game to prove himself before the international break. But, with this weekend’s fixtures postponed following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Liverpool's trip to Chelsea next Sunday could also be called off due to policing levels in London around the state funeral.
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