Arne Slot baffles after 'extraordinary' Alexander-Arnold move at Liverpool

Arne Slot’s decision to bench Trent Alexander-Arnold after his “extraordinary” assist in the Liverpool draw with Newcastle left Pat Nevin mystified.

The incident occurred when the full-back laid on a goal moments after coming on at St. James’ Park (67 mins), overlapping on the right and delivering a low cross which Mohamed Salah ran onto and scooped across goal to convert.

Former Chelsea winger Nevin said on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra: “It didn’t take them much time to click into gear on that right-hand side after making those changes. You just wonder why Trent Alexander-Arnold did not start the game. He’s got a great understanding with Mohamed Salah. That is extraordinary.”

Clinton Morrison added on Sky Sports Soccer Special: “Who scores for Liverpool?. Who do you think scores for Liverpool? That guy again. Salah, its ridiculous. [Dominik] Szbloslai comes to Trent. Trent, it’s a good block, but once he pulls it back to Salah, it’s a great finish from Salah.

“Right foot, right into this the bottom corner. Brilliant from Trent Alexander-Arnold just come on, but the finish from Salah is outrageous, 2-2. What a game.”

Liverpool must extend Trent Alexander-Arnold contract

Football Insider opinion

Fabian Schar’s 90th minute strike saw Newcastle United claim a thrilling 3-3 draw against Premier League leaders Liverpool. The result sees the Magpies climb up to 10th and six points of the top four.

This season, the 26-year-old has embraced a more defensive role under Arne Slot, a shift that highlights his versatility as both a traditional full-back and a modern attacking presence.

The Kop’s league-leading seven clean sheets owe much to the England ace’s defensive contributions, showcasing attributes like positional awareness, tackling, and resilience that often went under-appreciated in his previous, more attacking midfield-focused role under Jürgen Klopp.

Despite registering just three assists this season, Alexander-Arnold’s creative pedigree is undeniable, having achieved over 10 Premier League assists in three separate campaigns for Liverpool—a testament to his attacking influence.

Yet, as with Salah and Virgil van Dijk, his future at Anfield is uncertain as all three contracts are currently set to expire in the summer, and Real Madrid may be waiting to snap up the full-back.

His adaptability this term demonstrates a maturity in his game, proving he can shine as a key component in both attack and defence. This evolution has solidified his place as one of the most complete full-backs in the modern game, pivotal to the Reds ongoing success this season.

In other news, Newcastle supporters have reacted to reports around Anthony Gordon and Liverpool.

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