Emile Heskey’s Take on Trent, Liverpool’s New Style, and Exciting Champions League Group
Former England striker Emile Heskey has weighed in on key footballing topics, offering his perspective on Liverpool’s recent performances, their new signings, and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s chances with England. Heskey’s insights, originally shared in an interview with BetMGM, reflect his understanding of both club and international football, and his opinions offer plenty for fans to consider.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: England’s First-Choice Right-Back?
Heskey believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s stellar start to the season should see him nailed on as England’s first-choice right-back for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. Reflecting on Trent’s recent form, Heskey said:
“I think Trent Alexander-Arnold will be the first choice right-back for the upcoming games in the Nations League after the start to the season he has had. The only thing you can do as a player is go out and perform at your club and get recognised for that by being picked and then playing at international level.”
Heskey makes a valid point here—players must consistently perform for their clubs if they want to break into or maintain a spot in the England setup. As he aptly notes:
“Kyle Walker hasn’t played all that much for Man City yet, and he’s the main competition for that position. You have to think that Trent will be starting this weekend after some really strong performances for Liverpool to start the season.”
The battle between Walker and Alexander-Arnold will likely dominate discussions around Lee Carsley’s squad selection in the months ahead. But as Heskey points out, the Liverpool star has certainly done enough to merit the role, at least for now.
Liverpool’s Shift in Style Under Arne Slot
Heskey’s observations on Liverpool’s tactical shift under Arne Slot are particularly intriguing. He contrasts the high-pressing, intense football of Klopp’s early years with Slot’s more structured approach. As Heskey explains:
“I think the dynamics on the ball are a little bit different now because with Jurgen Klopp, especially when he first joined the club, it was all out attack. Let’s smother teams, really suffocate the opposition and press them into feeding us chances, which worked really well.”
However, Heskey believes that Slot’s approach will lead to more consistent performances, especially defensively, acknowledging that the relentless press is challenging to sustain over 90 minutes:
“This style of play is more structured with the build-up and trying to create overloads in higher areas of the pitch, recognising the opportunity and fashioning chances for their incredible front line.”
For Liverpool fans, this slight tactical tweak may seem like a departure from what they’ve become accustomed to, but the early results under Slot suggest this more balanced approach could pay dividends in the long run.
Chiesa’s Signing: A Smart Move?
Discussing one of Liverpool’s more intriguing summer signings, Heskey expressed excitement about the arrival of Federico Chiesa. Despite concerns over his age and injury history, Heskey remains optimistic about Chiesa’s potential in Slot’s system:
“I am always excited about any signing that Liverpool bring through the door. I know the club will have done their due diligence on a player who can excel in this system that Arne Slot wants to play. I guess he is cheap when you look at today’s crazy market, but he has had a few injuries and is a little bit older now.”
Liverpool’s transfer strategy has often been questioned in recent years, but if Chiesa can regain form and fitness, his signing could be a masterstroke for the club.
A Champions League Group to Savour
Heskey is also eager to see how Liverpool fare in their Champions League group this season, particularly given the narratives around their rivals. Reflecting on the group, he said:
“I am excited for this season’s Champions League. It’s a weird new structure, but we say that because we’re so used to the old structure and we’ll all get used to this one as well. Liverpool have a great group, Real Madrid are old rivals and then Xabi Alonso returning after all of the drama of Liverpool wanting him to take over from Klopp this summer.”
For Heskey, these storylines will only add to the drama of the competition. Liverpool’s historic rivalry with Real Madrid and the subplot of Xabi Alonso’s return make this a group to watch closely.