Trent Alexander-Arnold is undoubtedly one of the rising stars in world football. Still only 20-years old, the young Liverpool defender has started two consecutive Champions League finals, as well as being a vital cog in the best defence in the Premier League this season.
That is before we even mention his attacking prowess, with the player registering 16 assists in all competitions this season.
But all of that may not be enough for some people. Alexander-Arnold started for England in their UEFA Nations League third place play-off against Switzerland this afternoon, a game they would ultimately win on penalties.
It was a rather drab affair, and it was the remarks of the commentator that stole most of the headlines. On duty for Sky Sports, Martin Tyler questioned if Alexander-Arnold had the defensive qualities necessary to play for England at international level.
Seriously. He questioned the defensive acumen a 20-year old who was part of the best defence in the Premier League, and starred as his side won the biggest trophy in the game at club level. Tyler is not the most popular of figures amongst Liverpool fans, who believe that he can be a bit biased towards their team at times.
Football supporters of all creeds were confused by his comments.
The pedestal international football continues to be placed upon is bemusing. Martin Tyler essentially asking if Trent Alexander-Arnold can make the ‘step up’ to this stage. He’s just been an integral part of the side who won the Champions League, a far tougher competition.
— Kristian Walsh (@Kristian_Walsh) June 9, 2019
Martin Tyler: “is TAA good enough defensively to play international football at RB in a four?”
Well, Martin, it’s hard to know. I don’t know whether him playing for a team who have reached consecutive CL finals qualifies him to play against San Marino and Lichtenstein— John O'Sullivan (@NotoriousJOS) June 9, 2019
Martin Tyler "Is Trent Alexander-Arnold good enough defensively to play International football?" pic.twitter.com/o8nV2rolVy
— Ricky Mann (@RickyMann4) June 9, 2019
Earlier in this game martin tyler asked if trent was good enough defensively. 60 minutes later there talking about whether opposing managers should man mark him 😂😂😂😂
— Michael French (@mickfrench83) June 9, 2019
Trent: *wins champions league*
Martin Tyler: “Is Trent Alexander-Arnold good enough defensively to play in a back four, internationally for England?” pic.twitter.com/ohKdnyFl52— Dan (@d_knight99) June 9, 2019
Of course, Alexander-Arnold would go on to put on a trademark performance, being named man-of-the-match. He would create eight goal scoring chances. also break David Beckham's record for most crosses by an England player in one game.
Does that answer your question Martin?
