Former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has praised Trent Alexander-Arnold following his performance in the 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid last night.

The 23-year-old provided assists for both goals, and explaining why the defender should be England’s first-choice right-back, Lawrenson said that Trent’s delivery from crosses gives him the edge over Chelsea’s Reece James:

“I am not one of those who needs reminding of how good Trent is, but he still produces moments like his cross for Liverpool’s first goal in their win on Wednesday that just make you go ‘wow’. That kind of quality is what makes him a very special player indeed – and for me he is the best of a very good bunch that England have in his position. It’s a close call between him and Chelsea’s Reece James but, as good as James is going forward, he just does not have the same absolutely top-class delivery that Trent does. That’s what counts for me.”

Lawrenson’s opinion doesn’t seem to be shared by England manager Gareth Southgate, who even tried to use Alexander-Arnold in midfield during a match against Andorra back in September.

For Liverpool, though, Trent is pretty much given a free role to roam where he pleases. He was wandering into central midfield positions at times against Atletico whilst also pushing high up on the right flank.

The fullback will never be given that freedom at international break and, while some supporters will lament the fact that his talent is not recognised by his national team manager, most Liverpool fans won’t care about his performances for England, as long as he keeps doing his stuff for the Reds.