Trent Alexander-Arnold has taken to social media after Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brentford on Sunday.
Goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah were enough for Arne Slot to taste victory in his first competitive game in charge of the Reds at Anfield.
Despite the win, Alexander-Arnold appeared unhappy at being substituted against the Bees. Withdrawn with 18 minutes remaining, Slot spoke to the defender in the dugout following the change, while the England international still looked unimpressed following the final whistle.
Speaking to reporters after the final whistle, Slot dismissed suggestions of a possible rift with the Liverpool vice-captain, who remains out of contract next summer, as he explained his decision to take off Alexander-Arnold.
I understand. Every player wants to play 90 minutes but I don’t think the players who were on the bench from the start were really happy with the choice I made,” he said.
Trent came back from national team where at the beginning of the tournament (European Championships with England) he played quite a lot and then he didn’t. He had a few weeks off and then came back.“It’s only his third game and we have to take care of him as well because we need him for the whole season and not only the first two games.
What a good thing for me is that I have a very good backup with Conor (Bradley) as well. We are taking care of Trent, but he played a good game.”Alexander-Arnold has now posted on Instagram following the victory over Brentford as he paid tribute to Liverpool supporters.
Sharing pictures of him walking off the pitch, applauding supporters, and taking a corner, the defender wrote: “First win at home. Fans were incredible as always.
Alexander-Arnold would also post an update to his Instagram story, sharing a picture of him smiling as he arrived at Anfield and walked through to the dressing room.
The defender was also substituted in Liverpool’s opening day victory over Ipswich Town, with Slot introducing Conor Bradley in place of the right-back in the 77th minute.
The Reds are next in action away at Manchester United next Sunday in the final game before the September international break.
