Trent Alexander-Arnold has yet to complete a full match for Liverpool this season, but he played every minute for England in their home games.
Arne Slot, the manager of Liverpool, has explained his reasoning for substituting Trent Alexander-Arnold from every match so far this season.
Slot’s choice to bring off Trent during Liverpool’s second game against Brentford drew particular attention, as the 25-year-old didn’t seem pleased with the substitution. The two were later shown speaking on the bench following the substitution.
In Liverpool’s game against Manchester United, Trent appeared to accept the decision more about his substitution. Despite the player being an integral part of Liverpool’s attack in the opening matches of the season, Alexander-Arnold has not played a full 90 minutes in any game this season so far.
It is worth noting that Alexander-Arnold played the full 90 minutes in both of England’s international matches, as he received Player of the Match for both of England’s matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
Arne Slot explains the tactical substitutions of Alexander-Arnold
Ahead of Liverpool’s game against Nottingham Forest, Slot admitted that Alexander-Arnold could have potentially played a full 90 minutes against Brentford or Manchester United. However, with backup Conor Bradley available, Slot made the tactical decision to manage the squad carefully.
He explained that while Alexander-Arnold had proven his ability to play full matches, there were moments earlier in the season when he appeared tired. Slot noted that Bradley’s presence as a reliable alternative gives him the flexibility to rotate players, ensuring the squad remains active.
He mentioned the importance of giving other players, such as Bradley, valuable minutes to prepare the entire squad for the upcoming games. Slot also noted that it is not unusual to substitute key players when in a comfortable lead, as it helps prevent injury risks.
Liverpool.com says: “In Slot’s defense, the only reason eyebrows have been raised over his decisions to substitute Alexander-Arnold this season is because of the defender’s reaction against Brentford. Let’s face it, bringing off one of your most important players when you’re in a comfortable lead isn’t exactly the most controversial decision.”
To sum up things Slot is carefully managing his squad, including Alexander-Arnold, to ensure long-term success throughout a busy season.
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