Liverpool manager Arne Slot has claimed that Trent Alexander-Arnold can improve defensively if he focuses more. The star is one of the top right-backs in the Premier League. Despite this, the England international is generally a more offensive defender. Statistics certainly seem to back up this notion.
Alexander-Arnold has racked up 19 goals and an incredible 83 assists in 316 total games since making his Liverpool debut. These figures would generally be solid for a central midfielder. Yet they are even more impressive considering the star typically plays as a defender.
Although the direct goal involvements are applauded, fans and pundits generally criticize Alexander-Arnold’s defensive abilities. Much like his offensive output, these gripes are also backed up with statistics.
Opponents dribbled past the Liverpool star 2.5 times per 90 minutes last season. This was the highest figure of any defender in the Premier League. This particular trend has also continued into the 2024/25 campaign as well. For instance, no other right-back in the English top flight has been dribbled past more times (7) than the Liverpool star this season.
Slot calls on Trent Alexander-Arnold to raise concentration
Alexander-Arnold recently claimed that he wanted Slot to help him improve as a defender. In fact, he told reporters after Liverpool’s 3-0 victory against Bournemouth that he wanted “to be the defender that no one wants to come up against in Europe.” The defender also revealed that he asked his new coach to be harsh in his criticism. Slot has taken him up on the offer.
The Dutch manager initially praised Alexander-Arnold in a press conference on Tuesday. Slot pointed at his previous success with the Reds, particularly the special things he can do with the ball. Nevertheless, the coach then also pointed out the main issue for the English defender.
“I think with him it is not about if he is capable of doing things, it’s more can his…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/slot-says-alexander-arnold-needs-better-focus-to-be-top-defender/
Author : Chris Moore
Publish date : 2024-09-24 15:54:20
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