BT Sport commentator shares what Klopp was doing as Liverpool star was subbed off

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Jurgen Klopp chose to take Trent Alexander-Arnold off in injury time during a 2-0 win for Liverpool against Rangers – and BT Sport commentator Darren Fletcher shared how he tried to get The Kop clapping after his exit from the pitch.

It has been a rough start to the season for the Liverpool defender. His form had coincided with Liverpool’s start to the season, and then he was left out of England’s squad by Gareth Southgate. His World Cup chances look in real doubt.

While his attacking form is not under question, his defensive attributes certainly are. But on Tuesday night, he showed what he can do – and that is, curl a free-kick into the top corner from the best part of 25 yards out. Liverpool won 2-0.

Given the flak he has received, Klopp decided to take Alexander-Arnold off in the last few moments of the game. The idea being, the right-back would get a big show of appreciation from the Liverpool supporters following his display.

Klopp applauded vigorously, and Fletcher said he also pointed his clap towards the direction of The Kop as if to say, join in: ” Klopp is down there applauding and he has just looked at the Kop in an attempt for them to do the same.”

Fletcher: How Klopp got Kop clapping Liverpool ace Alexander-Arnold

It was a nice moment for a player that has been in the headlines. But it even nicer, given Alexander-Arnold has not been able to answer those that are criticising him. Or in fact, leaving him out of the England squad, quite remarkably.

On Tuesday night, he did just that. A gorgeous free-kick that will have surely caught the attention of Gareth Southgate. There is no doubt that Alexander-Arnold is technically, one of England’s best. But international football is different.

It is much more like a chess match; one false move and another country can capitalise. Because players are in the best of form at international level – unless you’re Harry Maguire – countries drop deeper and are more conservative.

That does not suit a flying right-back in Alexander-Arnold, who as a defender, shows weaknesses in defending. Reece James, Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker are still far more likely to be in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.