Looks like Trent Alexander-Arnold decided to moonlight as a midfield maestro against Ipswich, casually reminding us that right-backs can be playmakers too.
Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Ipswich Town might have seemed like a routine victory on the surface. But it was a little more than that, especially when you consider how the match actually unfolded.
Sure, the Reds eventually walked away from Portman Road with all three points, courtesy to goals from Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah. But if you thought that was the whole story, you’d be missing the real magic.
Enter Trent Alexander-Arnold, the man who continues to redefine what it means to be a right-back in modern football. Alan Shearer, who knows a thing or two about putting the ball in the back of the net, couldn’t help but sing his praises on Match of the Day.
Alan Shearer is amazed by Alexander-Arnold
Shearer precisely pointed out that the real turning point in the game wasn’t one of the goals but rather the “pre-assist” from Alexander-Arnold that set the stage for Jota’s opener.
“When Trent gets his ball here, I mean, the pass is just incredible.”
Shearer gushed, clearly struggling to find words that did justice to the moment.
“How you want it, where you want it? Thank you very much.
“In behind, running towards the Ipswich goal, and, as I said, good players are going to finish you off.”
It is as if Shearer is pointing out the obvious, yet sometimes the obvious needs to be stated: when you have a player like Alexander-Arnold who can whip a pass with such precision, good things tend to happen.
Trent too good to be true!
Ipswich were left chasing shadows, and Liverpool took full advantage, making it look all too easy. Let’s not forget, this was just Alexander-Arnold’s second appearance for Liverpool since his late return from England duty after Euro 2024.
No rust here though, as he slotted back into his right-back role like he’d never been away. In his 77 minutes on the pitch, he managed to complete 70% of his passes, won nearly every ground duel, and whip out four key passes.
He might not have gotten on the scoresheet himself, nor did he technically assist any of the goals. But those who watched the game know the real story. Without Alexander-Arnold’s vision and execution, Liverpool might still be searching for that first goal. But hey, no assist, no glory – right?
Also Read:
- 5 revelations from Arne Slot’s Liverpool debut: What we learned vs. Ipswich
- Mo Salah breaks legendary Premier League record in stunning fashion – leaves icons behind!
- Journalist confirms Liverpool interest in £50m deal for French-born ace
- Jurgen Klopp makes return to management after Liverpool exit – Details Inside!
- Liverpool urged to seal Marquee signing amid clock-ticking concerns