Trent Alexander-Arnold opens up on sharing Liverpool dead-ball opportunities
In a conversation with Laurence McKenna in collaboration with SONOS (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has revealed the teammate he would trust to take a free-kick in his stead.
The right-back has become a dead ball specialist in recent seasons and has contributed to several game-changing moments. Whether it be a corner or a freekick, TAA by default takes centre stage to supply the ball. He has been successful so far, scoring four direct freekicks for the Reds.
However, in a recent conversation with Laurence McKenna, Alexander-Arnold revealed why he believes his teammate would be better suited to take a freekick in some situations. He also added if a teammate shows enough conviction, he would be happy to let him take the free-kick.
“I’ve always said that if I’m not 100 per cent sure that I can score it, so if I’ve got a little bit of doubt, and a teammate comes to me and says, ‘I think I can score this’, then I’ll step away 100 per cent of the time.”
The Liverpool full-back gave an example of a situation when the distance of the freekick zone is further away from the goal. In such a case, the 23-year-old believes that 1.93 m tall Reds’ defender Virgil van Dijk is best suited for the task.
“The further out I get [to take the freekick], then it’s like ‘can I get enough power on it and technique’ to realistically do this? Then it might be better suited to Virgil.”
Should TAA allow a team-mate to take free kicks?
Alexander-Arnold has developed into one of the world’s best attack-minded full-backs in recent seasons. His exceptional crosses, delivery and shooting abilities align with a top attacking player. This season, he has bagged two goals and 18 assists in 37 matches across all competitions, which proves his abilities.
That’s why he has been the best-suited freekick taker for Liverpool. But, not every position is suited for every player. It depends on many factors, like the position, the player’s primary shooting leg, his confidence etc.
Allowing a teammate to take responsibility reflects Alexander-Arnold’s ability to contribute in team games, and his trust would be a big boost for his colleagues.
More Liverpool News
- Jurgen Klopp makes demanding claim ahead of the Manchester City vs Liverpool FA Cup semi-final
- Liverpool beat Tottenham to Luis Diaz due to ‘realistic’ bonuses
- Gabby Agbonlahor hints that Liverpool handing Mohamed Salah a stellar new contract conjuring different kinds of problems
Van Dijk often plays long balls from the backline to release the strikers. Even though a freekick is an entirely different setting, Van Dijk’s power and techniques reflect that he could be an excellent replacement for TAA in certain conditions.
The Dutch superstar has scored four direct free-kicks so far, but none of them were for Liverpool. It remains to be seen whether he will be handed an opportunity to add to that tally in a red jersey.
