"Is Klopp saying to him" - Rio Ferdinand on Trent Alexander-Arnold's form

Pundit Rio Ferdinand has given his verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold's form.

The right-back has been well off the pace defensively so far this season. But, Alexander-Arnold's strengths are going forward.

The Scouser has scored 14 goals and registered 62 assists in 235 appearances for Liverpool's first-team.

With that being the case, Ferdinand has given his opinion on Alexander-Arnold's recent displays.

As quoted by Anfield Watch on Twitter, he told BT Sport the following: "Is Jurgen Klopp saying to him 'you're in this team to create chances?' Is he treating him like he's a No.10 in this team from right-back?

"The game in the right-back position has changed so much. The likes of Joao Cancelo and Reece James are dictating games and getting more touches than anyone in the game.

"Is he telling him (Trent) 'the guys behind you, they're responsible for defensive situations, and you go out there and play off the cuff' without the noose around your neck to be responsible defensively?

"I think it will be difficult for Trent to start for England, with the way Gareth (Southgate) has set his team up in recent months and time gone by Jurgen Klopp is not looking at his weakest attributes.

"He is saying 'what are his best attributes and how can I get him out there producing the best parts of his game and amplify the positives?'"

Anfield Watch Verdict

We are not too concerned about Alexander-Arnold's form. The reality is, the right-back is a world-class player.

As far as we are concerned, Alexander-Arnold is going through a rough patch.

He is only 23 years of age. With that being the case, Alexander-Arnold is still learning about his craft. He will improve defensively without losing his attacking edge as time goes on.

We wish the full-back all the best for the remainder of the season. If Liverpool are to win a trophy this campaign, we do get the feeling that Alexander-Arnold will have to be somewhere near his best for the majority of the season.