Club legend admits full-back hasn’t always said things “a local player at Liverpool” should
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has condemned the reception Alexander-Arnold received from fans during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at Anfield.
The intense game was overshadowed by the controversial booing of Trent Alexander-Arnold by sections of the home crowd. The right-back, who recently announced his decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, was met with jeers as he entered the pitch in the 67th minute.
Despite being among many fans who expressed their disappointment at the departure of Alexander-Arnold, Carragher distanced himself from the booing of any player at the club.
“I’m surprised how many,” said Carragher on Sky Sports. “For me, I don’t believe any player putting on that red shirt who goes on to win trophies should be being booed.
“Booing one of your own players while they’re playing is not for me.”
Carragher further suggested that manager Arne Slot might consider not selecting Alexander-Arnold for the remaining fixtures to avoid further controversy:
“That [booing him] was a step too far. That could’ve been his last performance, which might be the right thing as Liverpool don’t need a circus.
“If you are frustrated with Trent, sing Conor Bradley or Steven Gerrard’s name. Don’t boo a player as it opens you up to criticism from supporters up and down the land about Liverpool supporters.”
The reaction from the fans was not altogether unexpected. Despite the right-back’s efforts to explain his position, many supporters have felt let down that a local boy is leaving the club to join European rivals Real Madrid.
Carragher admitted that the England West Derby-born lad has not acted like a local player should at the club.
“Trent was asked whether he’d want to win the Champions League or the Ballon d’Or and he said Ballon d’Or – even if he thinks that, it’s not the right answer for a local player at Liverpool,” said Carragher.
“The club has to come first. That showed Liverpool supporters he’s not a player who thinks about the club more than himself. He’s a brand. He’s an amazing footballer and that’s why Real Madrid want him.”
