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Klopp admits Alexander-Arnold’s defensive issues after England snub

Trent Alexander-Arnold - Liverpool
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The Liverpool star has lost his place in England’s lineup ahead of the World Cup.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has backed Trent Alexander-Arnold to bounce back from his poor defensive form.

Alexander-Arnold didn’t get an England call-up for their last two Nations League games before the World Cup.

Gareth Southgate has moved the likes of Reece James, Kyle Walker, and Keiran Trippier ahead of Alexander-Arnold in England’s pecking order.

The 23-year-old’s defensive struggles have also triggered criticism from Liverpool fans in recent weeks. But Klopp insists he would start Alexander-Arnold for England if he was their coach.

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“I see Trent differently, that’s clear,” Klopp told a press conference ahead of Liverpool’s clash against Brighton.

“People talk about him not being a good defender, that’s not true, he is a good defender, he doesn’t always defend good, that’s true.

“But, he’s 23. We’re working on it.”

He added: “Whatever team I would have at the moment, I would pick Trent. He is exceptional.”

Asked about Trent’s reaction to the latest England snub, Klopp responded: “Trent came back not in a party mood but he accepts the manager’s decision because he is extremely bright.

“The manager decides and more often than not here it is the case he is picked. It’s clear, he’s a world-class player.”

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