Liverpool youngster set for international debut ahead of World Cup

Liverpool youngster set for international debut ahead of World Cup

Liverpool youngster Trent Alexander-Arnold will make his senior debut for England tonight when the Three Lions take on Costa Rica at Elland Road.

TAA was a shock inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s 23-man squad for this summer’s World Cup after a brilliant breakthrough season for Jurgen Klopp’s side.

The teenager starred as Liverpool finished fourth in the Premier League and runners up in the Champions League, making 33 appearances in all competitions.

And Alexander-Arnold will reach yet another career milestone tonight when he walks out in the white shirt of England for the first time.

“At some point [during the game] Trent Alexander-Arnold will get a debut,” said Southgate when asked about the potential of the Liverpool star getting on against Costa Rica.

Many have had doubt about the inclusion of the young defender in Gareth Southgate’s squad – the 19-year-old is the only player in England’s squad yet to win a senior cap for his country.

However Southgate insists he has full confidence in the Liverpool star and says if he does well tonight, there is no reason in can’t be in the starting XI in Russia.

“He’s here on merit. He has performed exceptionally well this season, his quality has been top. He has settled in with the group really well. We’re really pleased to have him with us. It’s a huge moment for him, of course, but well deserved.”

“That’s why he’s here. I’ve not got a player in the squad who I would think twice about putting into the opening game of a World Cup.”

Barnaby Lane

Barnaby Lane

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