Liverpool’s academy is thriving at the moment. There are exciting young players coming through and making their mark in Jurgen Klopp’s first team.
From Conor Bradley, who was sensational in Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence to Jarell Quansah, who just keeps raising the bar with his performances at centre-back. And of course many others like James McConnell and Bobby Clark, who are on the periphery of the first team and have impressed with cameos this season.
The development that has gone on at academy level since FSG took over, and particularly since Klopp has been in charge of the club, has been incredible. The German has never shied away from giving debuts to young players. From almost day one he had championed young talent – beginning of course with Alexander-Arnold.
Rob Jones on Trent Alexander-Arnold
The club’s academy mentor and former Liverpool defender, Rob Jones, has been speaking about the evolution of Alexander-Arnold in the latest edition of the World Soccer magazine. Jones, who worked closely with Alexander-Arnold since the age of 16 when he was in the academy, has now likened the Liverpool vice-captain to a former legend at the club.
“When you have unbelievable, world-class ability like Trent, you just have to get him influencing and dictating as much as possible,” Jones explained.
“He’s the local lad and there are Gerrard-style vibes about him at times, which is obviously very exciting for everyone, and in the years to come, the natural progression will be for him to follow in those homegrown footsteps and become captain. I think Jurgen said it best when he was talking about ‘Liverpool Reloaded.’ It’s a new chance for everybody and everybody has to step up. He wants them to take responsibility and be the best version of themselves.
“I think you can see Trent is translating that message to the pitch as well as anyone. This ‘new’ Trent could well be the main inspiration and symbol of this latest Liverpool team for years to come.”
Jones is someone who clearly knows Alexander-Arnold well. It’s no surprise that he speaks of him in such high regard. The 25-year-old already has so much experience, and has been breaking records for Liverpool. But he’s still got a really bright and long-term future ahead of him. In the future, he could very much be the ‘main inspiration’ of this Liverpool team – just as Jones has predicted.
