Conor Coady has now shared what Liverpool product Trent Alexander-Arnold told him before playing a starring role as England beat Malta in a Euro 2024 qualifier on Friday.
The Three Lions secured a 2-0 win in their final game at Wembley this year thanks to an own goal by Enrico Pepe (8’) and Harry Kane’s (75’) strike. England boss Gareth Southgate used Liverpool wing-back Alexander-Arnold in his midfield throughout the Group C game, as well.
It marked the fourth time that Southgate has used Alexander-Arnold in midfield since giving the defender his debut in 2018. But the coach’s decision paid off with Southgate praising the 25-year-old for his ‘outstanding’ abilities after Alexander-Arnold conducted the proceedings.
Coady shares what Liverpool ace Alexander-Arnold said on playing in midfield for England
Southgate has sought to use England’s ties against lesser nations to experiment with playing Alexander-Arnold in a more advanced position. He first turned out in the Three Lions’ engine room at home to Andorra in 2021 before other outings against Malta and North Macedonia.
Appearances from midfield have also become a more regular sight at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp for Alexander-Arnold in recent years. And Coady has noted that the 22-cap right-back shared before Friday’s Euro 2024 qualifier that he is still ‘intrigued’ about playing in midfield.
“It’s a chance to impress,” Coady told BBC Radio 5 Live. “It’s a chance to get on the ball and catch the eye. Speaking to him yesterday, I think he is intrigued by the position and getting on the ball and I am excited to see him there.”
Malta’s FIFA ranking must be taken into account when reviewing Alexander-Arnold’s work
Alexander-Arnold was among the stars of the show for England at home to Malta in his latest appearance from midfield. But it must also be taken into account that the Three Lions are the #4 ranked country by FIFA. Malta, on the other hand, are only ranked #171, right behind Fiji.
So, Malta struggling to test Alexander-Arnold’s abilities in midfield should not be a surprise. His poise on the ball shone through, nonetheless, despite some robust challenges. Although not everything he tried ultimately paid off in search of a sixth assist through 22 caps to date.
Per WhoScored, Alexander-Arnold ended the night with a 92% pass success rate as England beat Malta. He completed 84 of the Liverpool talent’s 91 attempted passes. Only defenders Kieran Trippier and Harry Maguire with 107 each plus Marc Guehi on 102 completed more.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
