In an exclusive interview with TNT Sports, former Liverpool and England striker Peter Crouch shares his insights on what Liverpool must do to bounce back from a lackluster 2022/23 campaign. Crouch believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transition to a midfield role could inject new life into the Reds, especially with the addition of talented new signings Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Last season was one to forget for Jurgen Klopp’s men, as they faced early exits from cup competitions and ended up finishing sixth in the Premier League. The disappointing performance resulted in Liverpool failing to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in six years, leading star forward Mohamed Salah to label the campaign as “a failure.”
While injuries to key players played a part in the team’s struggles, one area that drew criticism was Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance at right-back. However, Peter Crouch, who now serves as a TNT Sports pundit, sees a potential solution in Alexander-Arnold’s move to midfield.
“The most crucial aspect is tightening up at the back because they have the players to score against anyone,” Crouch emphasized. “Liverpool has often relied on outscoring opponents, but solid defensive play is vital in this league. Just look at what Newcastle achieved last year. Their defensive solidity helped them secure a spot in the Champions League.”
Liverpool’s midfield was an area they failed to reinforce last summer, but this transfer window, the club has made some notable acquisitions. Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig have bolstered their midfield options. Yet, it is the prospect of Trent Alexander-Arnold flourishing in his new creative role that excites Crouch for the upcoming season, as Liverpool seeks to reclaim their position at the top of English football.
“I really love Trent in that midfield role,” Crouch shared his enthusiasm. “It’s something I’ve been advocating for a long time, and I’m not alone in that sentiment. All his strengths lie in going forward, and by placing him in midfield, it minimizes his weaknesses. Utilizing another right-back in a sturdy backline provides him the freedom to express himself.”
As Liverpool faces Chelsea on the opening day of the season in Mauricio Pochettino’s debut Premier League match as Blues boss, fans eagerly await to witness the transformation of Trent Alexander-Arnold in his new midfield role and the potential impact on the team’s defensive prowess.
