Trent Alexander-Arnold hit all the right notes with a trademark display but why Liverpool fans have every right to be irked by his off-field stance
- Trent Alexander-Arnold scored in Liverpool’s win over Accrington Stanley
- But he avoided press duties after the match as his future became increasingly uncertain
- Listen to It all starts! Why Manchester United may have to sell Kobbie Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho
It was a strike of the highest class. The power of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s right-footed effort, combined with the placement and dip to beat Accrington Stanley keeper Billy Crellin, would have beaten most top goalkeepers.
Another reminder of his quality, if ever needed.
Alexander-Arnold turned to the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, smiled and spread his arms as Anfield appreciated him again.
Coming less than a week after one of the toughest days of his career against Manchester United, this was a trademark performance from the Liverpool full-back.
“Every player around the world – maybe except a few – has a bad game and that’s completely normal. But once Trent has one, everyone has an opinion about it,” says Arne Slot.
‘Maybe that’s because of the contract situation. “If it hadn’t been there, I don’t know if people would have reacted the same way,” he added.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was a trademark in Liverpool’s victory over Accrington Stanley
But he avoided press duties after the match despite speculation about his future
Arne Slot may be getting tired of the subject as his party fights on all four fronts
Almost a fortnight has passed since Liverpool ’emphatically rejected’ an attempt by Real Madrid to buy the 26-year-old, but there is still no word from him.
After the match, Liverpool’s vice-captain was walking through the mixed zone and raised his hood when he saw reporters.
He previously rejected ITV’s request and all other rights holders’ requests to interview him after he was named player of the match.
It was left to 18-year-old Jayden Danns to speak to broadcasters.
And so Alexander-Arnold’s radio silence continues. Of course he has the right to speak whenever he wants, but right now there is a fan base that adores him.
Both Virgil Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have – directly or indirectly – expressed their intention to stay at Liverpool, with their contracts also expiring this summer.
Alexander-Arnold has previously spoken about not doing things in public, but if he has to go to Spain, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to come out and speak.
So far, Slot has answered all contract-related questions with ease, but privately the Dutchman must be getting tired of the subject now that his side is competing on all four fronts.
When Alexander-Arnold was substituted on the hour mark, he handed the armband to Wataru Endo, applauded from all four sides of the ground and took it all in as they once again proudly sang his name.
Deep down, only he really knows if he has a few more months or a few more years of that admiration.