“I have got a little bit of sympathy" - Jamie Carragher on player against Real Madrid

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has defended Trent Alexander-Arnold for his performance in the Champions League final against Real Madrid.

The 23-year-old has been criticised by some people for his defensive display at the Stade de france last Saturday night.

However, Carragher said that he did have some "sympathy" for Alexander-Arnold.

“I have got a little bit of sympathy with him,” he told CBS Sports on Paramount+ (28/05/22 at 11:20pm BST). “I think it’s a really difficult one.

“I understand what you are saying about the body position (just before Vinicius Jr scored the only goal of the match). But it’s very difficult when that ball flashes across there.

“I actually think Liverpool handled Vinicius throughout the game really well – he’s got to be looking at the ball, but when that ball flashes across, then I am not sure he can actually get there.

“Liverpool play offside a lot. So, when he does check, it’s because he doesn’t want to go behind his defenders and play someone onside. But these are the fine margins that decide the biggest games.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

As Carragher pointed out, Liverpool do play a very high defensive line. Therefore, there are going to be times when Alexander-Arnold is exposed.

One also has to factor in that the Scouser is an attacking full-back. There is a reason why he scored two goals and registered 19 assists in 47 appearances for Liverpool last season.

We absolutely love what Alexander-Arnold brings to the table. Sure, he could improve the defensive side of his game.

But, as we have already pointed out, Alexander-Arnold is only 23 years of age, so he has plenty of time to do so.

For the time being, the defender deserves a bit of a break from football. Alexander-Arnold has played quite a few games this season.