Arsenal attacker Bukayo Saka has showered praise on Liverpool midfielder Trent Alexander-Arnold. The duo are playing as teammates for England during Euro 2024.
Alexander-Arnold has been deployed as a midfielder by Gareth Southgate instead of the full-back's natural position. The consensus is that playing in midfield helps in hiding the 25-year-old's defensive vulnerabilities as well as makes his playmaking skills shine.
Saka has now claimed that having Alexander-Arnold in the side makes opponents scared of the Three Lions. The Arsenal superstar told BBC before the 1-1 draw against Denmark on June 20 (via Liverpool World):
"For us attackers, it's a joy to play with him. He's always looking forward, always looking behind and trying to threaten the backline."
Saka added:
"When he plays, the opposition is a bit scared. You never know where he can find the spaces, which pass he is going to play. He's definitely appreciated in the team."
Alexander-Arnold played 54 minutes during the Denmark draw. England, however, have looked a bit one-dimensional despite having a star-studded squad. They edged past Serbia (1-0) in the opener and drew against Denmark.
Gareth Southgate is still searching for the right mix to unlock the full potential of his side, which the team possesses a lot.
Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold created a delightful chance for Arsenal's Bukayo Saka
Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold tried his long passing range throughout the game against Denmark. He successfully did so on one occasion, setting up Arsenal's Bukayo Saka right before coming off.
After collecting a ball off Kieran Trippier, Alexander-Arnold delivered a spectacular long ball to Saka, who was unable to find the back of the net on that occasion. It was the first big chance created by England since Harry Kane's opener.
Given Saka's blistering pace and Alexander-Arnold's eagle-eyed vision, such combinations could be more on display as Euro 2024 progresses. England play Slovenia in their final group game on June 25.