Jamie Carragher has emphasized the need for Liverpool to secure a high-quality right-back, suggesting that doing so would allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to consistently occupy a midfield role.
During the weekend, Alexander-Arnold netted a goal, aiding Liverpool in securing a 1-1 draw against Manchester City at the Etihad. Carragher highlighted that the 25-year-old’s ability in the final third was showcased in this instance. While Alexander-Arnold has been positioned in a hybrid midfield-defensive role this season, his defensive awareness has been a point of critique compared to other full-backs in the Premier League.
Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, expressed a desire for Liverpool to acquire a right-back who could perform in significant matches, thereby enabling Alexander-Arnold to transition into midfield. This tactical shift, according to Carragher, could significantly enhance Liverpool’s attacking potency.
Furthermore, Carragher drew a comparison between Alexander-Arnold and Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, particularly in terms of their capacity to score from distance.
In parallel, Gary Neville echoed Carragher’s sentiments, hailing Alexander-Arnold as ‘sensational’ and drawing parallels between the Liverpool player and Manchester City’s Kevin de Bruyne. Neville acknowledged Alexander-Arnold’s exceptional striking ability and emphasized the importance of his defensive improvement for overall growth as a player.
Neville also indicated Alexander-Arnold’s potential to become the best right-back in history with added emphasis on refining his defensive attributes. Liverpool had previously shown interest in Benjamin Pavard as a right-back, but he opted for a move to Inter Milan, preferring to play as a center-back. Consequently, Liverpool might consider Denzel Dumfries from Inter or Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen as potential alternatives.