Gordon, who benefited from Alexander-Arnold’s quality, said: “I repeatedly make that run, but only a small group of players possess the skill, vision and courage to attempt such a pass despite the possibility of getting it wrong. That is what makes him so impressive, and it is why I have wanted to play alongside him for so long.”
“His experience with England has not always been straightforward. He would have wanted more playing time, but he has shown great character throughout this camp, and I have really enjoyed spending time with him.”
Alexander-Arnold is prepared to take chances in both defence and attack. Only Elliot Anderson completed more passes in the final third, recording 41 compared with his 32, while Anthony Gordon was the only player to create more opportunities, producing four to the defender’s three.
It is also worth noting that Tuchel is not the only coach to have questioned how best to use Alexander-Arnold.
Gareth Southgate’s unsuccessful decision to deploy him in midfield at Euro 2024 remains difficult to overlook. The experiment ended 54 minutes into England’s second match against Denmark and was not repeated.
A clearer picture may emerge if Tuchel selects Alexander-Arnold for Saturday’s behind-closed-doors match against Croatia in Rijeka. For the gifted player, who turns 28 on 7 October, this could be a decisive stage of his international career.
If he is unable to win over Tuchel during this camp, despite producing a moment of quality that changed the game, it is reasonable to question whether another opportunity will come.
Alexander-Arnold said: “It was a wonderful feeling because representing my country is always a privilege. I had been away for a long period, but I never stopped believing that I was capable of playing for England. I needed to demonstrate that with my performances at club level. The manager offered me an opportunity, and I hope he was pleased with what he saw.”
Whether Tuchel was fully satisfied will become clear in time.
Alexander-Arnold could hardly have offered more as England began their Nations League campaign with victory in Prague. Captain Harry Kane secured the points by scoring his 87th goal in 123 appearances for his country.
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