After Trent Alexander-Arnold's latest England snub, ex-Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor believes the Liverpool right-back would be within his right to retire from international football altogether.
Alexander-Arnold did not feature in either of the Three Lions' recent UEFA Nations League games against Italy and Germany and was omitted from the matchday squad in what was a dead-rubber against the latter.
England manager Gareth Southgate has since come under criticism for his handling of the 23-year-old, with many questioning how Manchester United defender Harry Maguire continues to be selected despite poor performances and not featuring at club level.
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Southgate doubled down on his decision to overlook Alexander-Arnold, claiming he believes Kieran Trippier's 'all-round game' justified his place on the bench ahead of the Liverpool Academy graduate.
Chances of making the final World Cup squad look bleak for the Reds' right-back following these latest comments and Agbonlahor, who earned three England caps during his career, has insisted the West Derby-born would be best walking away from England.
"If I was Trent, I would retire from international duty if I don't get in a World Cup squad," he told talkSPORT. "I would retire until a new manager took charge of England to give me the opportunity.
"What is the point of going away on these international breaks? Stay with your club, rest, prepare yourself for football.
"For Southgate to come out and say Trippier is better all-round than Trent, I think that is an insult. I do like Trippier but Trent is an all-round better player than Trippier. Walker and James, for me, are better than Trent but don't say Trippier. Come on, the joke is over Gareth.
"It wouldn't surprise me if he did retire. We've seen players in the past retire from England because they weren't getting the opportunities."
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