Trent Alexander-Arnold is set on securing a consistent starting position for England and feels that showcasing his abilities during this current national team training session will improve his chances of playing a crucial role at the upcoming European Championship next year.
Alexander-Arnold, who is in line to start Friday night’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Malta, feels his international career is finally about to take off. The Liverpool right-back missed Euro 2020 through injury, had a bit-part role at last year’s World Cup and is yet to establish himself in Gareth Southgate’s XI, but he has started to shine for his country since being handed a midfield role last summer.
The 25-year-old’s artistic abilities have been highlighted, and although two spots in England’s midfield are already filled by Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham, the third spot is still available.
This indicates that Alexander-Arnold will have a strong drive as Southgate’s team, who are aiming to secure first place in Group C and have already qualified for the Euros, play against Malta at Wembley and then North Macedonia on Monday. He is aiming for more than just being selected for the team.
“I have the chance to participate in the Euros and I am eager to seize it,” stated Alexander-Arnold. “Each match from now until the end of the season is a chance to earn a spot in the starting lineup for the Euros. These are significant opportunities and my main focus when I arrive at camp. My goal is to start in the Euros and contribute to winning a trophy for my country.”
Alexander-Arnold, who aims to join the squad’s leadership group, considers his presence in the midfield during the match against Malta in June as a pivotal moment. “The game against Malta was my most exceptional performance in an England jersey,” he stated. “I went into it with confidence.”
Before the camp, I had a conversation with the manager who mentioned a possible opportunity in midfield. These words motivated me and gave me a chance to go for it. I believe I took advantage of that opportunity.
Ignore the advertisement for the newsletter.
after newsletter promotion
Alexander-Arnold is a versatile player for Liverpool, often playing in a midfield position. In a match against Australia last month, Southgate utilized him as an inverted right-back. When asked about his role, Alexander-Arnold explained that he has never played in a traditional full-back position, but rather a version that is similar to his own style.
Source: theguardian.com
