Shearer backs Trippier to play ahead of Alexander-Arnold at World Cup

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Alan Shearer has told The Eleven that he does not think that there is a big difference between Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier and Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold as the pair vie for spots in England’s World Cup squad.

Trippier looks set to be named in Gareth Southgate’s squad. He has been a player Southgate has trusted throughout his tenure with the Three Lions. And he has been unbelievable since his return to the Premier League with Newcastle in January.

Alexander-Arnold meanwhile, appears to be less of a certainty. The Reds star has come in for a lot of criticism for his defending this season. And Southgate has been happy to leave the 23-year-old on the sidelines on a few occasions.

Shearer wants Trippier ahead of Alexander-Arnold at the World Cup

Shearer was discussing the lineup Southgate should pick for England’s opening game against Iran with Jamie Carragher.

The pair agreed that Kyle Walker should get the nod if fit. However, they could not decide on who would start if the Manchester City star is not ready.

Shearer insisted that Trippier should in the side, even if that comes at the expense of Alexander-Arnold.

“I don’t see a great deal of difference between Trent and Trippier,” he told The Eleven. “In terms of set-pieces, he’s fantastic. I know he’s scored last season, this season, set a few up. Assists-wise, crosses.

“He’s a better defender. I think as an all-round package what you’re looking for, I think [Trippier] is better than everyone of them.”

Alexander-Arnold probably is more of a wildcard for Southgate. He really has not covered himself in glory with his performances at the back for Liverpool this season.

However, few players in the Premier League possess the quality on the ball Alexander-Arnold has.

Shearer obviously feels that Trippier ticks more of the boxes. It is hard to argue that he is not a better defender than Alexander-Arnold. And he still brings a huge amount of quality to the side going forward.

Given that Southgate has been known to stick with the players he trusts, you would imagine that he would be much more inclined to go with Trippier over Alexander-Arnold should they both find themselves in Qatar.