Trent Alexander-Arnold insists he never lost the belief that he is good enough to play for England.
Alexander-Arnold was a regular at right-back under interim head coach Lee Carsley in 2024 but never fully gained the trust of Gareth Southgate during his eight years in charge.
First start in nearly two years
It has been the same story under Thomas Tuchel, but he made his first start for his country in nearly two years when he played against the Czech Republic in the Nations League on Tuesday night with other right-back favourites under Tuchel's reign out with injuries.
England ran out 2-0 winners in Prague as Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane netted for the Three Lions, with Alexander-Arnold picking up a loose ball and delivering a cultured cross to assist the opening goal of the game.
Assist among the best
Alexander-Arnold was asked to rank his assist among the goals he has set up during his 35 appearances for his country.
“It’s up there, for sure,” the 27-year-old said.
“I spoke to Ant [Gordon] at half-time. I said if I’m getting into those half-spaces, I’m looking to get it in the box. I didn’t expect it to happen that quickly.”
Gordon said afterwards that there are not many players in the world who could produce the quality of cross Alexander-Arnold did for Gordon’s goal.
By way of a response, the Real Madrid man told ITV: “That is a great compliment. He’s a willing runner. It’s great to play with him. I was able to execute the pass.”
Belief never wavered
Alexander-Arnold said being back in an England shirt was “amazing”, and added: “It is always an honour and a pleasure to represent my country. It’s been a long time, but I’ve always believed that I can play for England. That belief has always been there, and it’s just about proving it at club level.
“The manager has given me that chance tonight to go out there and play, and I tried to follow what he asked of me to the best of my ability.”
