OPINION
Trent Alexander-Arnold has been one of the breakthrough players this season for Liverpool, and has has a good season so far for the Reds.
However, he’s definitely more of an attacking full-back, and it was clear to see in Sunday’s fixture against Cardiff that the Englishman sometimes struggles defensively.
Even against a struggling team in the form of Cardiff City, Alexander-Arnold found it increasingly difficult to deal with the pace of Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, especially throughout the first half.
Defensively, Alexander-Arnold also struggled in parts to deal with Everton loanee Oumar Niasse, who caused the Reds a few problems earlier on in the game.
Although the 20-year old did take the corner leading up to the opening goal, again displaying his attacking prowess, this doesn’t take away the fact that the Cardiff winger ran him ragged earlier in the game.
Alexander-Arnold is now on eight assists for the season, after only 24 appearances.
Arguably, this season has been an impressive one for the defender, however defensive mistakes have been masked on various different occasions by impressive attacking displays, bursting forward and creating chance at the other end of the field.
The only issue with this, is that Liverpool seriously can’t afford to be struggling defensively, especially against teams lower down in the league.
Jurgen Klopp will have his tail up going into the final few games, as being strong in defence will be the key to successfully lifting the title.
Luckily for the Reds, the addition of Virgil Van Dijk has significantly increased defensive security this season, which has allowed the full-backs to push up at every opportunity.
However, Alexander-Arnold will have to work on his defensive play if he wants to secure his place as a regular starter for the Reds for years to come.
As after being exposed against Cardiff City on Sunday, alarm bells are surely ringing for Klopp as a result.
