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HomeNewsLiverpoolTrent Alexander-Arnold reveals what it will take to sign new Liverpool contract

Trent Alexander-Arnold reveals what it will take to sign new Liverpool contract

Trent Alexander-Arnold is determined to reshape perceptions of his defensive capabilities, rather than focusing on ongoing speculation about his future at Liverpool.

Alexander-Arnold has established himself as a key player for both his club and country, thanks to his exceptional vision and passing range.

However, he is eager to improve his contributions off the ball.

Since making his debut at 18 in 2016, he has often faced criticism that his attacking prowess has overshadowed defensive shortcomings.

This is a narrative that may have limited his England appearances under the cautious management of Gareth Southgate.

Under the possession-based system implemented by new head coach Arne Slot, Alexander-Arnold has found opportunities to enhance his defensive skills and believes he is benefiting from the coach’s guidance.

“I think that perception was perhaps harsh if I am honest,” said the 25-year-old.

“It was a big perception and it was hard to shrug off with just one good defensive game.

“But when you put a lot together – we have had four out of five (Premier League) clean sheets, that is exceptional from a backline.

“I have responsibilities to make sure my winger doesn’t get a sniff in the game.

“I set targets for every game – how many times am I dribbled past, how many times does he get a cross, how many times a shot?”

Slot has granted Alexander-Arnold more freedom than he enjoyed under his predecessor, Jurgen Klopp.

By adjusting the team’s framework for greater solidity, Slot has also incorporated individual input that benefits the new boss’s tactical approach.

“We talked about targets and aims and I said to him that I would like to be the defender that no one wants to come up against in Europe,” Alexander-Arnold added.

“We agreed that he will be harsh on me.

“Any time an attacker gets past me he will call it out in meetings and individual meetings and say this cannot happen.

“It is really refreshing to have a manager who will help and guide and teach me how to be better.

“I am someone who wants to learn, someone who strives to be the best ever.

“Defences win championships, that is the old saying.”

Alexander-Arnold is one of three senior Liverpool players whose contracts expire in the summer, alongside skipper Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.

All three players are keen to remain at the club, but it is essential for Liverpool to present suitable contract offers.

“I have always said I want to captain the club,” said Alexander-Arnold.

That is a goal of mine, whether that happens is out of my hands.

“I want to be a Liverpool player this season (as a minimum) is what I will say.”

He added: “The most important thing is always trophies. I want to win trophies.

“We were close to the title last season and we got a cup.

“The (quadruple) was on for a while I suppose.

“This season we are looking really good, it is still early days, but we need a lot of consistency.

“It will be difficult but we are looking to win as many trophies as we can.”

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Joseph Agbobli
Joseph Agbobli
Football Correspondent at Binge Football. In the role of Football Correspondent, he's responsible for producing exclusive and original stories and interviews. Follow Joseph on X (formerly Twitter) @joseph_agbobli
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