Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals he's had 'good talks' with England boss Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024 as Three Lions look to solve midfield conundrum

The Reds defender has long been utilised as an inverted full-back by Jurgen Klopp at club level, allowing him more freedom to affect play from a midfield position. Alexander-Arnold admits that he has enjoyed "coming into the centre more than ever" at Liverpool this year, which could be his primary position for the tournament in Germany in the summer. In that regard, the 25-year-old has revealed that he has been in contact with England boss Southgate over his Euro 2024 role.

Speaking about his position on the pitch going forward, Alexander-Arnold told Reds great Jamie Carragher for The Athletic: "It depends on the manager. I’ve had good talks with the England manager. A manager tells you how he wants you to play and you go out and play that role. I’ve evolved year after year, coming into the centre more than ever. I like to get on the ball in the middle of the pitch and make things happen. Whether I start in that role or just move inside when we’ve got the ball, it doesn’t bother me. I just want to play."

Pressed by Carragher on his priority over a No.8 or No.6 role, he added: "Either really. I can play a pass, I can receive the ball, I can do things with the ball. It’s more about what the manager wants to see from me defensively — whether he wants to see me jumping out or being a bit more protective."

Despite his obvious qualities, Alexander-Arnold has seen his opportunities at international level surprisingly limited, picking up just 23 caps across six years. That is, in part, due to an overload of players in his usual right-back role, who to a man generally boast better defensive knowhow and all-round experience.

However, a position slightly further up the pitch may offer him greater opportunities - and solve England's deficiencies. The Three Lions are lacking in more defensive midfield options to partner Declan Rice, with Jude Bellingham often forced to drop too deep to effect play. With Jordan Henderson increasingly out the picture and Kalvin Phillips struggling, it could be a pick between Alexander-Arnold and Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo for that midfield starting spot at Euro 2024.

Long before the tournament in Germany, though, the England international will look to regain full fitness as Liverpool chase two more trophies in Klopp's last season in charge. Alexander-Arnold has missed the Reds' last ten matches due to a knee injury but should return later this month.