Trent Alexander-Arnold has already nailed 'lazy' Liverpool opinion that's back again

Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold may be out of action through injury but remains in the headlines amid speculation over a move to Real Madrid. The 25-year-old is out of contract in 2025 and rumours suggest that he has attracted attention from the Spanish giants over a possible move.

The rise of the Kirkby academy graduate is no secret and the full-back's achievements in 302 appearances can only be rivalled by those who enjoyed trophy-laden spells with some of Europe's best - becoming the youngest-ever player to earn six major trophies at the age of 23. Yet criticism persists.

When Liverpool are at their dominant, rampant best, praise is abundant. Equally, when times are tough - as was evident last season when the Reds toiled to a fifth-place finish (among the worst under Jurgen Klopp) - criticism is strong and often not far away.

I expected to be dropped when Liverpool manager called - the next day he burst out crying at training and left

I don't know what FSG's plan is over four Liverpool transfer priorities - they need to sort things out

Even with Alexander-Arnold currently sidelined with a knee injury, with the hope that he can return in time for the visit of Sheffield United or the trip to Manchester United at the beginning of April, the Real Madrid speculation has sparked another discussion. The rumours prompted a conversation on an ESPN podcast, featuring former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol, who has provided an excerpt from the list of eyebrow-raising football opinions.

“I think the fact that Klopp’s leaving, it’s going to be interesting because as we have all said, Trent Alexander-Arnold, as a full-back, is a poor defender," said the 62-year-old who made over 300 league appearances for Liverpool.