Kieron Dyer cannot understand why Trent Alexander-Arnold is yet to make a start for England at the World Cup. The former Newcastle United midfielder accepts Kieran Trippier has had an 'exceptional' season so far, but believes the Liverpool star's technique is comparable to David Beckham.
Gareth Southgate previously described Trippier's all-round game as being 'ahead' of Alexander-Arnold, and the Magpies full-back started England's opening two group fixtures against Iran and USA. Both players were on the bench for the latest victory over Wales, although they were introduced as late substitutes.
Kyle Walker's return to fitness could see both Trippier and Alexander-Arnold remain on the bench for the upcoming knockout tie with Senegal. Southgate has previously shifted to a back five against tougher opponents, which could open the door for either one to be called upon as wing-backs.
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Dyer recognises the concerns over Alexander-Arnold's defending, and accepts England should look at alternatives if they progress to the later rounds of the competition. However, the former Newcastle midfielder believes the Liverpool full-back would have been ideal for the Group B fixtures.
Dyer told True Geordie : "With Trent, and I've been a coach, and I've heard Gary Neville and all of the pundits on what Trent can't do. We never embrace what players can do. Could you imagine him against USA the other night? Harry Kane got two touches of the ball inside the penalty box.
"I've never seen technique like it since David Beckham, and this is from a right back. He's incredible going forward, but all we seem to do is bash him for what he can't do.
"If you're that worried, you weigh it up and go he might get us a goal, but he might lose us two goals. I can understand that against a Brazil or a Spain, but when it's USA or Wales... come on.
"Listen, this is no knock. Trippier has had an exceptional season at Newcastle. But Trent, and this is no disrespect to Trippier, when you're talking about assists, he's nearly broke every assist record there is for a full-back already.
"I'd play him in all of these games, and if you're coming to Brazil when you're worried about Vinicius Jr, then hopefully Kyle Walker is fit or Trippier. But again, we love to tell players what they can't do."
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