After Gareth Southgate’s Kieran Trippier “insult” to Trent Alexander-Arnold, talkSPORT analyst Gabby Agbonlahor has urged him to retire from England duty until Southgate’s departure.
The pundit believes it is a “joke” to assert that the Newcastle full-back presently has a stronger “all-around” game than Trent.
Are you taking Alexander-Arnold or Trippier? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/DyKct10FmO
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) September 28, 2022
Reece James and Kyle Walker were both chosen ahead of the 23-year-old for the most recent Nations League games.
Meanwhile, Trippier was an unused substitute against Italy or Germany. However, Southgate said afterwards that the Newcastle full-back was next in line in the defensive pecking order.
Due to an injury, Alexander-Arnold was unable to compete in Euro 2020 and he has only appeared in four of the previous 15 international games.
What Did Agbonlahor Say About Alexander-Arnold?
Agbonlahor acknowledges that the Liverpool full-back is currently behind both James and Walker. However, he was unable to conceal his surprise at the claim that Trippier is also a superior choice at this point.
Speaking to talkSPORT, the former Aston Villa forward said: “If I was Trent, I would retire from international duty if I don’t get in the World Cup squad. I would retire until a new manager took charge of England. 100 per cent.
“What’s the point going away on these international breaks? You can stay with your club, rest and prepare yourself for Liverpool.
Trending Stories: Lionel Messi Poised To Leave PSG Next Summer
“For Southgate to come out and say Trippier is all-round better than Trent, I think that’s an insult. I do like Trippier but Trent is an all-round better player. Walker and James are better than Trent, but don’t say Trippier.
“Come on. The joke’s over, Gareth. It wouldn’t surprise me if he did retire because we’ve seen players in the past retire because they weren’t playing for England.”
COMMENTS