'Really intrigued': Wayne Rooney says he can't wait to see £180k-a-week Liverpool player in Qatar

Wayne Rooney has said he is ‘intrigued’ to see how Gareth Southgate uses Trent Alexander-Arnold during this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.

Alexander-Arnold was eventually selected by Southgate. With Reece James missing out and Kyle Walker returning from a long-term injury, Trent was given the nod. This, despite some patchy performances in a Liverpool shirt this season.

Rooney loves Alexander-Arnold

Rooney, writing in his column for The Times today, believes Alexander-Arnold should be starting for England. The former England striker admitting that he’s so interested in how the Three Lions use him.

“I’m really intrigued to see what Gareth Southgate does with Trent Alexander-Arnold. Personally, I would start him. I think Harry Maguire will have another big tournament. He has performed better for England than he has for United — I think he would agree — and over the last couple of years United have struggled,” Rooney said.

Photo by Peter Powell – Pool/Getty Images

“He hasn’t had much protection and it is no coincidence that now there is more stability in the middle of the pitch with Casemiro, United’s defenders are playing better. With England, he has always had that protection.”

Alexander-Arnold – who earns around £180k-a-week in Liverpool – has come in for criticism due to his defensive efforts. However, going forward, there is no doubting the Liverpool man’s ability.

TBR’s View: Trent can star for England in the right game

You would worry for Alexander-Arnold in a game against a top side like Brazil or France. Their attacking players could trouble any defence or defender, never mind Trent.

However, there will be a time for the Liverpool man this tournament. In the games against Iran and maybe Wales, who will sit deep, his passing and dead-ball ability could be crucial.

Rooney obviously has strong thoughts on Alexander-Arnold starting. He is a world-class talent on his day. Whether or not Southgate agrees, remains to be seen.

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