Reece James, a Chelsea defender, has attacked those who have criticized England teammate and Liverpool sensation Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The two are vying for a place in Gareth Southgate's England starting lineup for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
James, speaking to the Daily Mail about his Premier League adversary and international teammate, has slammed people who claim his fellow right-back is a defensive liability.
Despite being one of the most prolific creators in the Premier League, Alexander-Arnold has been chastised in previous years for his defensive displays.
When challenged about his teammate fullback's criticism, James said, "I make mistakes as well." We're both still learning our craft after I gave up a penalty against Hungary.
Chelsea's Reece James during a Premier League game at Stamford Bridge. (Alamy) "Liverpool have 95% of the ball, and he has to defend less than I do." People have a lot to say yet don't actually understand the game. Trent is a fantastic athlete.
The pair are vying for a spot in England's squad with Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker ahead of their journey to Qatar at the end of the year, with Southgate's side aiming to win the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
The Three Lions came in second place at Euro 2020, losing on penalties to Italy in the final at Wembley.
After a successful season with Chelsea, James continued to declare that he is doing everything he can to get a starting spot at the World Cup.
"I'll do all in my power to be first choice," he added.
After coming off the bench against Hungary and conceding a penalty in England's Nations League opener, James started against Italy in a 0-0 draw.
Last season, James' best performances came at right wing-back, when he scored six goals and added ten assists in 39 appearances for Chelsea.
In comparison, Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold scored twice and registered 19 assists in 47 matches for the Premier League runners up.
The pair will want to impress Southgate early in the season as their clubs compete to push Manchester City at the top of the Premier League and compete for domestic cups, with Liverpool defeating Chelsea twice on penalties at Wembley last season to win the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
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