Rio Ferdinand believes Trent Alexander-Arnold has the technical ability to play as a midfielder for Liverpool in the future.
The 20-year-old was a standout performer as the Reds moved to the top of their Champions League group with a 4-0 win over Red Star Belgrade on Wednesday night.
Besides producing another assured defensive performance, the Englishman again flexed his passing expertise and a familiar mobility to get up and down the pitch.
Speaking on BT Sport, Gary Lineker posed the question to Ferdinand as to whether Alexander-Arnold could be shifted into a central role further down the line.
The former Manchester United replied: “I think he could play there, he’s that talented. He’s more than just a defender. His distribution on the ball from anywhere on the park, he can pick anyone out at each given time.”
“He had Neymar in his pocket the whole game. He shoots, he takes free-kicks in the Champions League. That tells you he doesn’t only have confidence in himself, but his teammates have confidence in him.”
"Do you think he might end up in midfield?"@rioferdy5 "I think he could play there, he's that talented. He had Neymar in his pocket!"
Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to develop and impress at Liverpool 👏 pic.twitter.com/gAjLFIFGR9
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) October 24, 2018
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Alexander-Arnold’s extensive passing range and composure on the ball evidently stems from his experience as a midfielder during his rise through the club’s youth ranks.
From his ambition to drive forward, to his crisp delivery and high intensity ball retrieval, it’s easy to see why many have mapped out a potential future in midfield.
He showcased his versatility towards the end of last season when he started as part of a central trio in the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with Nathaniel Clyne slotting in at right-back.
This followed a similar role in April’s goalless draw with Stoke City, in which he proved to be one of few bright sparks for the Reds.
Though the traits of a midfielder are certainly there, it would be difficult for Jurgen Klopp to move him away from a right-back position he has cemented as his own.
Dominant performances in the Champions League against the likes of Leroy Sane, Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar over the past two seasons have teased his potential to become one of the top full-backs in the country.
That said, there is always a place for a player of his flexibility in Klopp’s setup.