Gabby Agbonlahor urges Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold to retire from international football
Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor urges Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold to retire from International Football. This comes after Trent stood left out of Gareth Southgate’s matchday squad against Germany. That was England’s last game before the World Cup in Qatar. (as spoken to talkSPORT)[h/t The Express]
Since his debut in June 2018, the right-back has only started 14 games for the Three Lions under Gareth Southgate, who prefers Reece James over the scouser. Apart from James, the gaffer has a plethora of right-backs to choose from, including Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier.
Trent’s offensive qualities are second to none, the only questions raised are over his defensive abilities. Moreover, the Liverpool right-back has featured for England only once this year, against Hungary back in June.
Even though Agbonalhor is popular for his quirky and eccentric comments more than his footballing abilities, it is not very tough to understand his point of view in this scenario. Speaking to talkSPORT (h/t The Express), he said that Trent could rather get rest and give his 100% for the club.
“If I was Trent, I would retire from international duty if I don’t go to the World Cup. What’s the point of going away on these international breaks when you can stay with your club, rest and get prepare yourself for Liverpool.”
Is retirement an ideal situation?
At merely 23 years of age, retirement from an aspect of football would be one of the last things on Trent’s mind. But the fact that his future with England remains uncertain with Southgate having favourites makes one wonder if Trent could free himself of international duties in case he is not picked for the World Cup later this year.
Trent could wait until a new manager is in place before playing international football. Multiple players in the past have also retired from playing for their nation when opportunities did not arise.
The worst part of Trent not being part of the squad is that the player’s technical abilities are subject to overshadowing because of his sub-par defending skills. No player is free of disadvantages, and the 23-year-old is no different. A player in the national team should be there due to his strengths and not be left out due to weaknesses.
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Far from Wembley, and closer home, Liverpool will play Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield on 1st October. Trent could make the fixture an opportunity to prove Southgate wrong for not selecting the player.
