Trent Alexander-Arnold has been the Liverpool name on everyone’s lips during the September international break, having seen his World Cup hopes dealt a big blow by England boss Gareth Southgate.
An unused substitute for the Three Lions’ Nations League loss to Italy, he was left out of the matchday squad entirely as they drew 3-3 against Germany in his absence. With Southgate confirming Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Recce James are all ahead of the Reds defender, who has admittedly started the season out of form, in the pecking order, he is facing an uphill battle to be included in England’s 26-man squad for Qatar this winter.
With Jurgen Klopp set to face the media at his latest pre-match press conference on Friday lunchtime, the German is almost certain to be asked about the defender’s international fortunes. After all, naturally protective of his players, he has publicly shared his bemusement and questioned Southgate’s use of Alexander-Arnold in the past.
