Jamie Carragher believes the contrasting styles of Jurgen Klopp and Gareth Southgate has led to the omission of Trent Alexander-Arnold in the latest England squad.
Southgate named his 26-man squad for upcoming friendlies against San Marino, Albania and Poland and caused controversy with some of his selections.
The biggest shock was undoubtedly Alexander-Arnold being overlooked for the national side, having recently appeared to be getting back to his best.
But not everyone was shocked to see the 22-year-old left out of Southgate’s plans.
Offering his view on the decision, Carragher explained why England’s approach to matches has worked against the Liverpool defender.
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“What we have to realise is playing for England under Southgate is never going to be the same as for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool,” the Sky Sports pundit told The Telegraph.
“Since he made his Liverpool debut, Alexander-Arnold has been a midfielder converted into a full-back. He has flourished by growing in a side which wants domination with the ball, thriving when Liverpool had its usual back four and covering midfielders who have enabled him to play as much like a wide midfielder than defender.
“Strange as it sounds for a full-back, defending has never been his strongest asset. He has sometimes struggled in one-on-one defensive or man-marking situations. Naturally, when Liverpool’s back four and midfield was destabilised by injuries at the start of this season, that became more apparent.
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“Trent has often cited Barcelona’s Dani Alves as his hero. That’s perfect when Liverpool are swarming all over the opposition. That has not been the case for the last eight months, and never will be for England in an international tournament,” Carragher continued.
“Southgate knows that when England face tougher nations in a knockout round at the Euros, his side will go long periods without possession. That is why he is more inclined to pick a full-back he believes is more geared to defending rather than attacking.”
Alexander-Arnold was named PFA Young Player of the Year last season as Liverpool claimed the Premier League title.
He has made 27 Premier League appearances this campaign, scoring once and providing three assists.
