Alexander-Arnold shines for England as Tuchel praises world-class assist against Czech Republic
Alexander-Arnold delivers decisive moment in Prague
Trent Alexander-Arnold had to start under Thomas Tuchel for England, and the 27-year-old right-back made an immediate case for more trust with one world-class delivery that broke open a stubborn 10-man Czech Republic side.
It was against this backdrop that Alexander-Arnold became the ninth right-back used by Tuchel in 24 games when he finally got his start against Czech Republic in Prague as England tried to recover from the 3-2 loss to World Cup holders Spain at Wembley.
England, despite being in control, were toiling against the 10-man Czechs, who had seen danger man Pavel Sulc sent off after only 25 minutes for a reckless challenge on Elliot Anderson. It was then, two minutes after the break, that Alexander-Arnold delivered a moment beyond those Tuchel has chosen ahead of him at right-back to pierce that stubborn resistance.
The player now officially known as "Trent", according to the name on the back of his shirt, had already made a 70-yard run into an attacking position in an attempt to increase England's attacking options. When the move broke down, he regained possession before unfurling a magnificent right-foot delivery that floated in a teasing arc beyond three Czech defenders for Anthony Gordon to score with a stooping header that he made look far easier than it actually was.
Tuchel reacts to excellent assist
A delighted Tuchel told BBC Radio 5 Live:
"He (Alexander-Arnold) did very well. He had an excellent assist. Overall, like everyone, he was professional, top attitude and one decisive action."
He added:
"We never doubted that he can produce these kinds of assists. The deeper position in the second half suited him more than the higher position in the first half."
Alexander-Arnold is a risk taker, both in the defensive and attacking context, but only Elliot Anderson (41) made more passes in the final third than he did (32), while only Anthony Gordon, with four, created more chances than the defender's three.
Reaction from Gordon and Alexander-Arnold
Gordon, the grateful beneficiary of Alexander-Arnold's class, said:
"I make that run time and time again and only a certain number of players have that ability, technique and bravery to be willing to make the mistake trying that pass. That's why he's so good and I've been dying to play with him for that reason."
Alexander-Arnold said:
"It was amazing. It's always an honour to represent my country. It's been a long time, but I've always believed I can play for England. That belief has always been there and it was about proving it at club level. The manager gave me a chance, now hopefully he is happy with how I played."
England sealed the three points with captain Harry Kane's 87th goal in 123 international appearances. If Tuchel persists with Alexander-Arnold against Croatia behind closed doors in Rijeka on Saturday, this must be close to make or break time for the lavishly-talented player who is 28 on 7 October.