While adjusting to his new hybrid role for club and country, Trent Alexander-Arnold has admitted that he is studying the techniques of several excellent midfielders.

The 25-year-old product of the Liverpool academy has been switching between midfield and his customary right-back position for the Reds this season. On Friday night, Alexander-Arnold played a similar position for England as they defeated Australia 1-0.

England manager Gareth Southgate has suggested that Trent Alexander-Arnold could be in line for a larger role in midfield after failing to get into his plans at right back. And Alexander-Arnold isn’t doing anything halfway when it comes to mastering the new requirements that have been set for him.

Alexander Arnold told Channel 4 after the Australia game, “I have always felt I play the game a little differently than anyone else.” It’s tough to find other players with my level of expertise and experience.

I borrow bits and pieces from other sources. I give [Kevin] De Bruyne a lot of attention, and James Maddison has a great knack for getting on the end of passes in crowded areas. Just by being on the same training field as Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, I am picking up useful pointers. Despite the age gap, I feel very comfortable asking them questions. If this helps me become a better player, then it was all worth it.

Alexander-Arnold’s first-time pass set up England’s game-winning goal, with Ollie Watkins, who has been on fire recently, deflecting Jack Grealish’s scuffed shot at the far post.

The topic of whether Alexander-Arnold would be better off in the midfield or at right back has been raised despite his improved play this season.

However, the man insists that it makes no difference to him where he plays. I don’t know [my optimum position], he continued. Whether I play in the middle or on the wing doesn’t really matter. To achieve my goal of being the game’s tempo setter, I must spend as much time as possible with the ball in my feet.