England manager Gareth Southgate has revealed that Trent Alexander-Arnold will continue playing in midfield for the Three Lions if Liverpool continues to use him in that position.
In their 4-0 victory over Malta on Friday night in Euro 2024 qualification, Alexander-Arnold stood out for England.
The 24-year-old played a key role in the setup for the first goal, an own goal by Ferdinando Apap, and he added England’s second goal of the night with a brilliant drive from range.
Alexander-Arnold continued to start as a right-back for Liverpool, but Jurgen Klopp decided to switch him to midfield when his team had the ball toward the end of the 2022–23 campaign.
In response, Southgate started Alexander-Arnold in centre midfield on Friday, giving him the number 10 jersey just for good measure.
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Southgate said that Alexander-Arnold’s position in the England lineup will hinge on where he plays at Liverpool.
“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,” Southgate said.
“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.
“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.”
After the game, Alexander-Arnold told Channel 4 he was liking his new position and was eager to stay in midfield.
“It’s still early doors, I haven’t played it too much, but it feels comfortable, natural,” he said.
“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.”