20 April 2023 , 14:52
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Brentford boss Thomas Frank has backed Trent Alexander-Arnold to star in midfield in future after his five star display for Liverpool at Leeds on Monday.
The full back has been a much maligned figure this season, having been criticised for his defensive play amid Liverpool's struggles. He's also fallen out of favour with England boss Gareth Southgate, and was left out of the squad during the last international break.
But he revelled in a more advanced role at Elland Road, dictating play with his range of passing and inspiring the visitors to a 6-1 win. Just a week earlier, it was his nutmeg of Oleksandr Zinchenko and subsequent cross that allowed Roberto Firmino to head home a late leveller against Arsenal.
Liverpool host Brentford on May 6 as they seek a late charge into the top four, a factor Frank is no doubt aware of. And speaking to Premier League Productions, his admiration for Alexander-Arnold's ability was clear: "I was sitting here thinking maybe play him as a right-back, but when they are in possession play him as a six or an eight," he said. "Play him there [right-back] against a team they know they will control and dominate but, against the better teams, play him in midfield."
Arguing that the 24-year-old's future could well lie in midfield, he also defended the star over his perceived errors this season, claiming he was a victim of Liverpool's style, not his own inadequacies: "There are a lot of so-called experts, not me, that say Trent should defend better," he added.
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"It's also a little bit down to the way Liverpool play, which if they are top, then they are - for me - unplayable. One of the best teams in the world as they have consistently shown. But he is there so advanced, there are so big gaps that they have to defend.
Thomas Frank thinks Alexander-Arnold's future lies in midfield (Getty Images)"Jurgen said (in the Leeds match) there wasn't one situation where (Andrew) Robertson and Trent were one vs one. There is always doubling up, always someone down to help. I think that's key as well."
Alexander-Arnold's efforts on Monday were also appreciated by his teammates. Returning teammate Luis Diaz was seen giving him a bearhug at the final whistle, with Klopp also late lauding his star man.
The clash between The Reds and Frank's side could yet end up pivotal if Liverpool continue their resurgence. Brentford meanwhile, have European aspirations of their own, again excelling this season under their highly rated manager.