Liverpool manager Arne Slott has praised Trent Alexander-Arnold as he shrugged off criticism over the past week with an impressive performance in Saturday's 4-0 FA Cup win over Accrington Stanley.
The England full-back, who captained the Reds against the League Two side, played a quick pass to Darwin Nunez in the build-up to Liverpool's opener, before doubling their advantage with a powerful shot into the top corner.
The 26-year-old was subjected to heavy criticism after last Sunday's 2-2 draw at home against Manchester United in the English Premier League, in which his right-winger scored both goals.
This came after speculation about Alexander-Arnold's future with Liverpool because his contract will also expire in the summer, with Real Madrid reportedly interested in signing him this month, or on a free transfer.
“I could talk for hours about that goal,” Slott said of Alexander-Arnold's 20-yard effort. “The biggest compliment Trent can get is everyone’s reaction [on Saturday] After the Manchester United match.
“Every player around the world, except maybe a few, has a bad game and that's completely normal. But the moment Trent has a player, everyone has an opinion about him.
“Maybe it's because of the contract situation. If it wasn't for that, I don't know if people would act the same way.”
Former Premier League striker Glenn Murray, speaking to Final Score, described Alexander-Arnold's goal at the end of the first half as “Beckham-esque”, in reference to similar goals from former England captain David Beckham.
“He makes it look so easy,” Murray said. “His style is amazing, the way he shoots the ball.”
Alexander-Arnold was a prime target for Beckham's former club Real Madrid, the current Spanish and European champions, but former England goalkeeper Rachel Brown-Finis said she would not be surprised if other teams showed interest.
She added: “Real Madrid is one of his candidates, but I think he can go anywhere he wants, if he wishes.”
