Alexander-Arnold speaks openly on position change as Southgate praises England’s ‘mentality’ | OneFootball

Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has suggested that he “feels natural” playing in midfield after he scored in England’s 4-0 win over Malta.

Alexander-Arnold was operated as an inverted right-back during the Premier League run-in and he started in midfield as England faced Malta in their latest Euro 2024 qualifier on Friday night.

The Liverpool standout scored a stunning goal from range as the Three Lions ran out 4-0 winners on the road. An own goal from Ferdinando Apap broke the deadlock before penalties from Harry Kane and Callum Wilson sealed a comfortable victory.

Speaking post-match, England boss Gareth Southgate praised his players for being “excellent from the start”.

“Of course, we know we have the quality to win the game and then it’s about the mentality. I thought that was excellent from the start. We have players that give you leadership on the pitch and set the tone and that’s how they’ve trained all week,” Southgate said.

“In particular, when we lost the ball the reaction to winning it back was a sign that we were there mentally and then some really good quality for the first two goals in particular. We’ve made it look straightforward when we know that isn’t always the case. I’m very pleased with the night.

“We never know when we are going to have people available. There’s always going to be that turnover of players with injuries so it’s important the young players are comfortable and know the group. That is very important that we have those options.”

Alexander-Arnold meanwhile “enjoyed” the game against Malta and he admitted that he “sees himself” carrying on midfield in the coming years.

“I enjoyed it. I love playing football and being on the pitch and representing my country. To play the full 90 minutes, I was happy. After the little break at the end of the season, it was about getting fitness back in my legs. I enjoyed it and I’ll remember that one,” Alexander-Arnold said.

When asked if he sees himself as a midfield moving forward, he added: “I don’t know. I think potentially. I haven’t played it too much but it feels comfortable. It feels natural, I will say that. It’s somewhere I can see myself playing. I want to make sure I am regularly on the team sheet and today was a good foundation to build on.

“Hopefully I am one of those players that can be used in a number of positions. I’m not bothered where I play as long as I’m playing. No matter what position I’m playing in, I will give my all and try and win the game.

“Regarding England, the manager has always tried to find a way to get me into the team and with the quality, of the players who play in those positions, it’s been difficult to find that. I think the role I’ve been playing with club football, it’s a new avenue. It’s still early doors, it’s only one match. But it’s important that when I get the opportunity, I take it.”