THE SCOUSER In OUR TEAM
Matt Ladson from fan site This Is Anfield is relishing Alexanderarnold’s chase for the numbers set by Liverpool’s iconic players
Jurgen Klopp once (half joking, half serious) said he dreamed of a “team full of Scousers” – while that won’t come to fruition, he’s provided Reds’ supporters with a truly world-class local talent.
Alexander-arnold’s “the Scouser in our team” chant needs pluralising, now that Curtis Jones has evolved into an important player as well, but the sentiment shows how vital the right-back is to Liverpool supporters.
Having a local lad in the line-up is always something the fans crave, and after the golden era of Robbie Fowler, Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, Trent’s development under Klopp has provided fans with another of their own – a player who grew up within walking distance of the Reds’ training ground, and was one of those children who stood on wheelie bins and peered over the wall for a glimpse of their heroes.
Alexander-arnold is now a hero to supporters himself, and his No.66 has become iconic – immortalised in paint on one of numerous murals around the roads of Anfield. On that artwork is a quote which sums him up perfectly: “I’m just a normal lad from Liverpool whose dream has just come true.” His story, fans may think, could be their story – if only they were as exceptionally talented at football as Trent.
The 25-year-old represents more than just a footballer. He’s a lad who inspires local kids and understands the values of the club, the city, the community and its fans. He isn’t merely a representative of Liverpool Football Club, but Liverpool as a city.
Now Liverpool’s vice-captain and destined to become skipper himself one day, his 300-plus outings mean he could become the first Liverpool player since Gerrard and Carragher to rack up 700 appearances for the Reds. Could Trent even surpass the revered Phil Neal as the club’s most decorated player of all time? Neal held 23 trophies aloft – Alexanderarnold is on his coattails after lifting a magnificent seven.