Liverpool academy graduate Trent Alexander-Arnold insists he will be unfazed by coming up against Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in Kiev.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has the nigh-on impossible task of containing Cristiano Ronaldo in a few weeks. Not only that, it is Cristiano Ronaldo in a Champions League final, which is a stern test for a 19-year-old defender.
The Englishman is set to become the youngest Reds player ever to feature in a major European final, and he will be tasked with putting the shackles on the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
That task alone is enough to unsettle even the most savvy veteran, let alone a young player still learning his trade. However, the local lad is said to be relishing the opportunity to showcase his ability on the biggest stage, and against the highest level of opposition, according to the Liverpool Echo.
“With Ronaldo being one of the greats, probably one of the best players ever, it’s going to be an honour to hopefully play against him,” Alexander-Arnold said.
“You know a lot about him and the likes of (Lionel) Messi because you watch them on YouTube when you’re growing up. You always watch those type of players.
“You’ve just got to focus on the game and if he’s a direct opponent you have to see what the strengths and weaknesses are and use them to your advantage.”
Alexander-Arnold is certainly saying all the right things to inspire confidence, but only time will tell whether the occasion and level of opposition will prove too much.
However, his presence in big games has undoubtedly improved since his shaky first-half display against Marcus Rashford at Old Trafford earlier this season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
