Liverpool: Alexander-Arnold explains his different approach to defending

The Liverpool right-back has come under fire for his poor defensive displays in recent weeks.

Trent Alexander-Arnold believes focusing on defensive positioning only limits his ability to take a more flexible approach to the game.

The England international has maintained a strong presence in Liverpool’s attacking plans. However, his poor defensive positioning has convinced many to single him out as the main culprit for the Reds’ defensive struggles.

“I never like to play the position, I play the game,” he told GQ. “[If] you play the position, it limits you. It’s like playing with shackles on.

“I’ve always thought that with a sensible mind, play the game, get in positions that will hurt the opposition, and at the same time do the defensive work you need to do.

“It’s more: Play the game how it needs to be played.”

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Gareth Southgate has continued to drop Alexander-Arnold from England‘s quad in recent months. Reece James will most likely retain his starting spot in the Three Lions’ lineup for the tournament.

In addition to Alexander-Arnold, a number of other Euro 2020 participants have lost their places in England’s lineup. The Liverpool star believes such changes show why FIFA shouldn’t hold the World Cup every two years.

“It just becomes a bit too familiar, and it loses that special World Cup feeling,” he added. “Teams wouldn’t change, and things wouldn’t really change that much.

“Whereas every four years, you’re looking at a whole new evolution of the team. It’s just a lot of time for things to happen, and it gives young players more of a chance to be able to make it.”