Trent started as an out and out midfielder against Malta and played a starring role in the central part of the pitch. He also capped his brilliant performance with a well-taken goal.
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England enjoyed a comfortable away day against Malta, as they cruised to a 4-0 victory in the Euro 2024 qualifiers. It helps them stay on top of Group C, as the Three Lions made a noticeable tweak to their approach. Trent Alexander-Arnold was deployed in the midfield rather than his usual right-back position. It is not something new for the Englishman, as he is used to playing there for Liverpool in a hybrid role.
However, he started as an out and out midfielder against Malta and played a starring role in the central part of the pitch. He also capped his brilliant performance with a well-taken goal. It was long time coming for Trent Alexander-Arnold. He was often criticised for his defensive work when playing in the full-back position. Hence, many suggested him to be switched to a midfield role, something that has materialised in this international break.
Speaking about the role change, England manager Gareth Southgate said, “A lot of what happens is going to be dependent on his club, because the fact he has been playing partly in there, with the ball, has helped his transition tonight. What was pleasing tonight is that he’s getting used to receiving in tight areas with his back to goal and players behind him, whereas he is used to playing on the touchline, with the play in front of him. He was very comfortable doing that.”
Southgate also revealed about having a call with Trent on his new position few weeks ago. “I’ve got no questions in my head. He can do it. It’s just learning some nuances of the role, without the ball especially, but he’s very keen to do it. He has enjoyed the project, if you like. We talked about it about four weeks ago on the phone and I think he’s been excited by it. He showed exactly what we think he could be capable of and he gives us something different to our other midfield players,” he stated.
The Liverpool full-back believes the performance against Malta has laid the platform for him to keep playing in this position regularly. “It’s still early doors, I haven’t played it too much, but it feels comfortable, natural,” Trent told Channel 4. “It’s somewhere I enjoy playing and where I can see myself playing. It’s about getting myself into this team and trying to be a regular name on the teamsheet. Today was a good foundation to build on. I’m not too bothered where I play as long as I’m playing.”
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