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Has Trent Alexander-Arnold proven himself a more complete full-back than Kieran Trippier?

Stephen Ganavas

Wed 19 September 2018 19:00, UK

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kieran Trippier both started for Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, respectively, in their first meeting since representing England at this summer’s World Cup.

In Russia, Alexander-Arnold played deputy to Trippier – eight years his senior.

Trippier had an excellent tournament, and deservedly received plaudits for his performances.

Yet, the question must start to linger over whether Alexander-Arnold deserves a crack at the starting right wing-back role for England.

The questions over whether a 19-year-old should be entrusted will inevitably flow, but there is no doubting the wonderful resume that he is putting together.

In one season, the Liverpool star went from a rotation option to a key component of Jurgen Klopp’s team that reached the Champions League final.

Meanwhile, Trippier’s form goes through more highs and lows. While a lot of the perception around him seems to be centered around his crossing and set-piece delivery rather than on his qualities as an all-round full-back.

Granted, he is a better crosser than Alexander-Arnold.

However, the brilliance of the youngster’s all-round game continues to be asterisked by the fact that he is 19.

Instead, his youth should be celebrated.

There is a chance to mould a 100-cap England international here, with a skill set that is flexible to a wide range of styles and structures largely due to his upbringing as a midfielder.

And this is not to discount Trippier, who is a good full-back – maybe even very good.

But Alexander-Arnold is also very good, and has elite-level potential to match and time on his side to take England to another three World Cups.