Liverpool icon slams England decision over Real Madrid star’s omission: ‘Surprised and disappointed for him’
· Yahoo Sports
The omission of Trent Alexander-Arnold from England’s squad has quickly become one of the most debated talking points in international football.
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With Thomas Tuchel leaving the Real Madrid defender out for upcoming fixtures against Uruguay and Japan, questions have been raised from several quarters and now, one of England’s most respected voices has weighed in.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard did not hold back when discussing the decision, making it clear that he found the omission difficult to understand, especially given the player’s quality and experience at the highest level.
Questioning his absence
Gerrard admitted his surprise while still acknowledging the depth England possess in that position.
“I was surprised, yes, very much so. Look, we have good options at right back – Reece James is world-class in my opinion and Livramento.
“I know he’s had a couple of injuries, but he can play on both sides. I understand the choice, but I wonder: is Trent Alexander-Arnold among the top 35 players in this country? Of course he is.”
Gerrard went further by highlighting the unique qualities that Alexander-Arnold brings to the team, attributes that could prove decisive in key moments.
Explaining why the defender should still have a role, he added,
“There will be certain games where England has to open up, and Alexander-Arnold is one of those players who can come off the bench and completely change the game with a single pass.
“He’s a player of that calibre. That’s why I’m surprised and disappointed for him.”
Move to Real Madrid
Trent Alexander-Arnold was left out of England’s squad. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Beyond the national team discussion, Gerrard also reflected on Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid, a transfer that has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from those connected to Liverpool.
Speaking from personal experience, he revealed how difficult such decisions can be when Europe’s biggest clubs come calling.
“Any player is going to pay attention if Barcelona or Real Madrid come after him. Madrid came after me when Mourinho was there. And I listened.
“It wasn’t talked about much because we said no quickly enough, but I listened. They had my attention. It’s Real Madrid.
“No matter who you are, if those clubs come calling, you think about it. And if you don’t, you’re not human. That’s why I understand Trent’s situation.
“His best friend plays there, maybe he wants a new challenge, he’s already won everything at Liverpool… There’s a part of me that gets it,” said Gerrard.
However, his emotional connection to Liverpool also led him to question the move from a different perspective.
He admitted that, while he understands the appeal, it is not a decision he would have made himself.
“But when I put on the Liverpool jersey, I think, ‘What are you doing?’ You’re on one of the best teams in Europe, winning titles I still dream of winning.
“You’re one of the team’s most important players; the fans adore you—so what are you doing? He’s going to take risks; he’s a leader here. I hope it works out for him. I wouldn’t have done it,” he concluded.
Source: AS