Trent Alexander-Arnold scores first international goal in statement performance for England

Trent Alexander-Arnold netted his first-ever senior international goal as England beat USA 3-0 on Thursday night.

The Three Lions took on rumoured Reds target Christian Pulisic and his American colleagues at Wembley, in what almost felt more like a testimonial, with Wayne Rooney returning to the international fold one final time.

Gareth Southgate looked to have one eye on Sunday’s UEFA Nations League clash with Croatia, given the nature of his starting lineup.

Alexander-Arnold’s inclusion was indicative of that, with the Liverpool youngster nominally behind Tottenham‘s Kieran Tripper in the right-back pecking order.

The 20-year-old has not been at the top of his game for the Reds this season, so this was a chance for him to gain some confidence.

Joe Gomez was left out of the squad entirely, with his fitness being managed, while Jordan Henderson was on the substitutes’ bench.

Jesse Lingard curled England into a 1-0 lead, before a memorable moment in the increasingly productive career of Alexander-Arnold arrived.

ENGLAND 2-0 USA

The Three Lions are flying as Alexander-Arnold adds to Jesse Lingard's opening goal.

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— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) November 15, 2018

The youngster fired home a superb finish from a tight angle, wheeling away with joy after achieving his latest milestone.

It meant Alexander-Arnold is the youngest Reds player to score for England since Michael Owen registered against Luxembourg in September 1999.

What a moment for @trentaa98! ? pic.twitter.com/kjCK3XMHpt

— England (@England) November 15, 2018

Henderson was introduced along with Rooney early in the second half, enjoying a solid run-out as he continues his return to full fitness.

Debutant Callum Wilson rounded off the win on a comfortable night, but from a Liverpool perspective, the evening belonged to Alexander-Arnold, who was given the Man of the Match award.

Attention now turns to the UEFA Nations League clash with Croatia, with the English Reds contingent likely to come up against club team-mate Dejan Lovren.

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Meanwhile, Dominic Solanke enjoyed a starring role for England’s U21s, scoring both of his country’s goals in a 2-1 friendly win away to Italy U21s.