Liverpool right back Trent Alexander-Arnold played a key role in convincing Rangers to sign midfielder Brandon Barker this summer, according to Football Insider.
The outlet claims that the 20-year-old told Reds legend – and current Ibrox boss – Steven Gerrard to sign a man who was ‘one of the toughest opponents’ he had ever had.
The England international’s remembrance of being ‘destroyed’ by the Gers star in youth matches between Liverpool and Manchester City had a profound effect on Gerrard.
There was one game in particular in 2016 when Alexander-Arnold had to be substituted off after Barker grabbed two assists while operating up against the Reds ace.
OPINION
It’s amazing how these two players’ careers have gone in such contrasting directions. To hear Alexander-Arnold tell it, it was Barker who was the superior prospect when they were going up against each other as youngsters. The England international reportedly said himself that he was ‘destroyed’ by the former City star, and his comments clearly held plenty of weight with Gerrard. To be fair, this was a low-risk free agent signing for Gerrard. He had nothing to lose by listening to what Alexander-Arnold had to say and taking a chance on the 22-year-old. It’s worked out alright so far, with Barker scoring on his league debut for the British giants against Livingston. It will be interesting to see if Barker can get his career back on track north of the border, after his rapid rise stalled in Manchester. Alexander-Arnold certainly seems to think he’s got something left in the tank.
