Jonathan Woodgate has claimed during BBC Live’s coverage of Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Arsenal in North London – that Reds star Trent Alexander-Arnold endured a “torrid time”, when coming up against Gabriel Martinelli.
Liverpool produced a second-half masterclass to see off the challenge of in-form Arsenal – after the Gunners probably edged the first 45. Goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino moves Liverpool closer to Manchester City.
But it was not a comfortable night for Liverpool’s defence – with the likes of Andy Robertson and Joel Matip providing crucial clearances throughout the night, largely because of the performance of Arsenal ace Martinelli.
The Brazilian, who has earned his first senior call up to the Selecao, was on fire. He got past Alexander-Arnold time after time, even nutmegging the England ace. Woodgate said Alexander-Arnold was given a “torrid time”.
“Gabriel Martinelli is really giving Trent Alexander-Arnold a torrid time. Arsenal are on the front foot here,” Woodgate claimed, during his role as co-commentator on BBC Radio 5 Live – as quoted by BBC Live.
Woodgate claim proof Liverpool ace Alexander-Arnold needs work
Alexander-Arnold is one of Liverpool’s best attacking threats going forward. But defensively, he has been questioned and it saw Gareth Southgate choose Kieran Trippier over the Liverpool ace for Euro 2020 last summer.
It was more proof that £180k-a-week (Spotrac) Alexander-Arnold is not the best defender in the world. His body position was often poor, and he could not deal with the speed of the Arsenal talent. He needs work, defensively.
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