Alexander-Arnold 'will be a better player' for critics, says Aldridge

Trent Alexander-Arnold will get through his tough start to the season and "will be a better player for it".

That's the view of former Liverpool striker John Aldridge, who spoke about Alexander-Arnold's recent battles in an exclusive interview with Stats Perform.

The right-back's performance has come under scrutiny since the start of the campaign following a series of lax defensive displays.

Alexander-Arnold previously fought to make England's World Cup squad before contributing to Liverpool's disappointing results.

Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate did not use Alexander-Arnold in September internationals as he explained 'the full game is ahead' of rival Kieran Trippier

Until this season, Alexander-Arnold's club form has been at least consistent, and Aldridge is confident he will soon be back to his best.

"You have one of the best full-backs in the world in front of you," Aldridge told Stats Perform. "Offensively, [he is] the best full-back in the world, without a doubt.

"He's a local guy. He's focused. He just needs to learn a bit more about the defensive responsibilities he has.

"But he needs to be allowed to do what he does, and he's been disappointed with the players in front of him and the midfield not covering him as well this year, in my opinion.

"So it's not entirely his fault, but it seems like he's been singled out all the time, and what Gareth Southgate did to him, I don't think it did him any good .

"He's a young boy, it's the first time he's seen something like this. Everything was rosy for him.

"And you have to learn to take the tough with the good in football, and he'll get through it, and he'll be a better player for it."

Alexander-Arnold could still travel to Qatar with England next month as both Kyle Walker and Reece James are injured.

Aldridge added: "I think Reece James is out now. Will he take Trent? If he doesn't take him, he's not the manager I thought he was, and I think that he did a very good job for England, Gareth.

"From my personal perspective, I'm going to be selfish and say I hope he doesn't go. But if he wants to go, I hope he does."