Trent Alexander Arnold’s position change has given Liverpool a new dimension to explore

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s switch from right back to a holding midfielder when his team is in possession is one of the most talked about changes in Jurgen Klopp’s recent tactical tweaks. The move to the middle of the park has given Liverpool an extra dimension, something which they have been desperate for this season.

Firstly, it is worth noting that the 24-year-old is one of the most creative players in world football with his ability to pick out a pass, whip in a cross or score from a free-kick being second to none. But, as many people have discussed this season, he is often limited by his defensive responsibilities and how he often struggles to deal with tricky wingers.

In the new role that Jurgen Klopp has awarded him in his new 3-5-2 formation, Alexander-Arnold is no longer responsible for marking the opposition players on the left flank and instead, he can be more involved in the build-up play of the team. In the two games so far that he has played as a holding midfielder he has looked like a whole different player.

Furthermore, with the new role, Liverpool play with a more fluid and dynamic style of football. With him in the centre of the park, Liverpool has an extra passing option and his ability to switch the play has been invaluable in playing the team out of danger. Trent Alexander-Arnold has also temporarily filled the void of a ball-playing midfielder that Liverpool so desperately needed with him acting as a link between the midfield and attack.

Finally, with Alexander-Arnold now helping out in midfield Liverpool have been given more versatility. With him being able to play centrally, Jurgen Klopp can rotate his side and midfield more effectively to better manage what is a very bare-boned midfield.