Trent Alexander-Arnold could get ripped apart in midfield, says Roy Keane
Roy Keane argues that Liverpool fullback Trent Alexander-Arnold would struggle when playing in midfield against top teams during the knockout stages of Euro 2024. Alexander-Arnold is anticipated to feature in midfield alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in England’s group-stage opener against Serbia on Sunday, according to Gareth Southgate.
Roy Keane has reiterated his stance on Trent Alexander-Arnold, urging Gareth Southgate not to deploy the Liverpool star in midfield for Euro 2024.
Keane said on ITV Sport:
“You have players who can go and win you matches but the problem is defending against better teams. I think they will be fine in the group. Trent will be fine [in midfield]. But against really top teams, I think he will be found out. I think he would be ripped to shreds if he played against one of the better teams in central midfield. I don’t think he would be up to it.”
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/19692/13153692/england-at-euro-2024-trent-alexander-arnold-could-get-ripped-apart-in-midfield-says-roy-keane
In the past, Brazilian legend Cafu came to the defense of Trent Alexander-Arnold, questioning why England manager Gareth Southgate had not included him in the 2022 World Cup squad. Despite criticism of the 24-year-old’s defensive performances in the 2021-22 season amid Liverpool’s struggles in the Premier League, Cafu insisted Alexander-Arnold’s attacking strengths should have earned him a starting spot. Cafu even drew comparisons to his former teammate Roberto Carlos, emphasizing Alexander-Arnold’s offensive prowess over concerns about his defensive capabilities. Cafu told Italian news outlet Gazetta Dello Sport:
“I don’t understand why. He has everything: quality, dribbling, pace, but it’s always the same story, they say you are not defensive enough and you remain out. Somebody used to say the same about Roberto Carlos and me, but I think we won something.”
https://www.gazzetta.it/Calcio/Mondiali/28-11-2022/mondiali-qatar-2022-cafu-sicuro-questo-brasile-favorito-anche-senza-neymar-4501303774274_preview.shtml?reason=unauthenticated&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gazzetta.it%2FCalcio%2FMondiali%2F28-11-2022%2Fmondiali-qatar-2022-cafu-sicuro-questo-brasile-favorito-anche-senza-neymar-4501303774274.shtml%20%20%20
Pundits, particularly those like Keane, ought to reconsider their relentless critique of Trent Alexander-Arnold. While constructive criticism is valuable, the consistent targeting of Alexander-Arnold’s defensive abilities ignores his significant contributions to Liverpool and England, especially in attack.
Alexander-Arnold’s role as an attacking fullback has redefined the position, showcasing his exceptional crossing ability, vision, and playmaking skills, which are crucial to Liverpool’s and England’s strategies. His impact goes beyond traditional defensive metrics, influencing games with his creativity and offensive prowess.
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Critics should recognize that modern football values versatility and offensive output from fullbacks, where Alexander-Arnold excels. Overly focusing on perceived defensive lapses overlooks his overall value to the teams he represents. Instead of constant scrutiny, acknowledging his strengths and contributions could provide a more balanced perspective on his role and capabilities in top-level football.