The reality is that Alexander-Arnold has never been as bad defensively as what many might like to make out. Against Chelsea and RB Leipzig this week, though, the Liverpool number 66 has been excellent. It's almost like Keane wasn't really commenting on what happened, but what he assumed might be the case.
"Everyone kept saying how brilliant Trent was defensively yet the manager took him off with 10 minutes to go," he said on the latest episode of Stick to Football, brought to you by Sky Bet. "Brilliant isn't it! 2-1 up with 10 minutes to go and he's off. That sends a great message doesn't it. 'Yeah we really trust you defensively!'"
With Liverpool currently being without Conor Bradley through injury and Arne Slot's side facing three huge games in the space of a week, it is hardly shocking that Alexander-Arnold was given a rest near the end of the game. To start all three matches and play the entirety of each would be a big ask physically.
David Beckham's verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold speaks volumes after Roy Keane criticism
There is a simple explanation for why Liverpool made the change: Joe Gomez is a more than capable deputy, of course, but Alexander-Arnold will be needed to start on Sunday at Arsenal. Any breather he could get in Germany was therefore welcome.
"Andy Robertson is a brilliant defender but I thought there was something up with him last week [against Chelsea]," Gary Neville said. "I thought he had a really tough game. If Saka is playing it could make a difference." Keane, not content with only criticizing one Liverpool full-back, added: "Madueke kept running by him — that's not good!"
Liverpool.com says: Alexander-Arnold has been doing extra work to get better at his defending and Liverpool have been solid this season at the back. Six goals conceded in 12 games is a good record, and Alexander-Arnold has been a key part of keeping clean sheets.
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