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Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to play as a midfielder – pure bred, no hybrid – tonight. Many pundits have criticised his lack of defensive nous, most notably Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane, and Gareth Southgate was asked the question during his press conference.

Everybody’s more than entitled to opinions. I spoke to Trent about playing in this role over a year ago. It’s not something he’s been doing for the last five years. There is an element of the unknown. But I think it’s an opportunity that’s worth grasping because he could be incredibly special.

With Alexander-Arnold the pass is never simply played, but measured. The difference here is roughly akin to that between a bartender and a mixologist.