Trent Alexander-Arnold earned plaudits from Gareth Southgate for supporting England's midfield experiment and showcasing his skills during the easy victory away to Malta.
Although the 24-year-old is a well-known player at Liverpool, prospects with the national team have been limited by fierce competition at right-back.
In September 2021, Alexander-Arnold struggled against Andorra when Southgate tried him there, but things went much better in Malta, where he earned just his 19th cap on Friday night.
All three of the first half's goals were assisted by the England star, who also expertly curled in a Harry Kane penalty and an own goal by Ferdinando Apap.
With his own penalty shot, substitute Callum Wilson made it 4-0, but this was Alexander-Arnold's night as Southgate's team extended their successful start to qualifying for Euro 2024.
"Inevitably, a lot of what happens is going to be a little bit dependent on his club," the England manager added.
I believe that his transition tonight has benefited from the fact that he has been playing partially in that area with the ball, albeit a little deeper.He's becoming more accustomed to receiving in confined spaces with his back to the goal and players behind him, which was encouraging tonight.As opposed to receiving on the sidelines with the play in front of him, where he is accustomed to doing so and feels completely at ease.
Look, I have no doubts that he can complete the task. Without the ball, his experience in the role would be significantly different, and he is simply discovering some of its complexities.But he's eager to get started. If you like, he has enjoyed the kind of project.He seemed excited when we discussed it on the phone a little over four weeks ago, and, indeed, he demonstrated exactly what we believe he is capable of. He offers us something unique compared to the other midfielders we have.
Compared to their previous visit to Malta, when they played the underwhelming hosts to a scoreless first half, this was a far easier night for England.
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