Former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold has been handed a recall to the England squad for the upcoming internationals, with Thomas Tuchel discussing the decision
Thomas Tuchel has been discussing his England squad selection
Thomas Tuchel has been discussing his England squad selection(Image: (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images))
England national team head coach Thomas Tuchel has claimed that Trent Alexander-Arnold has "an opportunity" to impress him over the next three weeks, following a recall to the team.
It follows the former Liverpool star missing out on the World Cup squad in the summer, with the manager deciding to choose other right-back options instead. That was despite several injuries in the position, coming as a huge blow to the 27-year-old after a difficult opening season at Real Madrid.
The second season at the Bernabeu for Alexander-Arnold hasn't started easily either, with the arrival of Denzel Dumfries causing concerns over his playing time on a regular basis.
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Head coach Jose Mourinho has seemingly preferred the Netherlands international so far, with the defender starting two of six matches in La Liga, while his one start in the Champions League so far this season has come in midfield.
Despite a challenging start, Alexander-Arnold was recalled to the England squad for the coming three-week international break that will span September and October.
Tuchel explained his decision surrounding a return for the former Liverpool defender, as he said: "It's an opportunity for Trent. He had a good start to the season. He started some matches for Real Madrid. We're happy to have him back."
When asked about what Alexander-Arnold needs to do to keep his place in the team, the manager told the press: "Perform. Perform. Perform. That's just what it is.
"It's a competition, and I understand the question because he was not with us at the World Cup. We trusted other players, I still stick with this decision.
Alexander-Arnold is back in the England squad
Alexander-Arnold is back in the England squad
"It's not time to fight for his place, he always said he's up for a fight, he always said he's up to fight for his place, especially for England. So it's on him to prove that, and he's more than welcome in camp, we have a long camp, and I'm sure he will show up."
The defender has a battle on his hands within the squad, as Tino Livramento and Ezri Konsa were also called up to the team, who could also feature at right-back for the team.
There are four matches for the star to impress in, with UEFA Nations League action coming up against Spain, Croatia, and a double-header against the Czech Republic.
It remains to be seen how Alexander-Arnold will do on his return to action for England, having landed just one appearance under Tuchel so far.
The defender could feature alongside Liverpool star Rio Ngumoha, ahead of a run of important games for the Three Lions in the weeks ahead.