Trent Alexander-Arnold Says He Never Stopped Believing He Could Play for England

Trent Alexander-Arnold says he has never stopped believing he can play for England, after he set up the opening goal in a 2-0 win over Czechia in his first international start in almost two years.

The Real Madrid defender got a surprise recall from Thomas Tuchel after missing out on the World Cup squad this summer. He repaid the manager with a perfect cross behind the Czechia defence in Tuesday's Nations League game, and Anthony Gordon headed it home.

Speaking to ITV, Alexander-Arnold said it felt great to be back. "Amazing. It's always an honour and pleasure to represent my country. Like you said, it's been a long time," he said.

He said the belief never went away. "I've always believed I can play for England and I always want to. That belief's always been there, it's just about proving it at club level.

"And the manager's given me the chance tonight to go out there and play and try to follow what he's asked of me to the best of my ability. And hopefully he's happy with how I've played."

Asked if the display could keep him in Tuchel's plans, he said: "Yeah, hopefully. I mean, of course, it's not my decision but when I am given the opportunities I'll try my best to take them and hopefully I remain part of the squad and the team for a long time now."

Gordon was quick to praise the 27-year-old when asked how many players in world football could make that pass. "Not many," he told ITV. "I said that to him when I scored.

"I made that run time and time again, but like you say, only a set number of players have got that ability, technique and bravery to actually make the mistake trying that pass. So, great credit to Trent, that's why he's so good, and I've been dying to play with him for that reason."

Gordon also spoke about having Alexander-Arnold back in camp. "Yeah, great. Listen, he's had his own journey with England. Probably should have played ... Would have liked to have played more than he has, sorry.

"But he's been a great character this camp. I've really enjoyed being around him, he's trained really well. So he's going to be a great addition."