Trent Alexander-Arnold was one of the feel good stories of the England squad announcement for this summer's World Cup and the way the Liverpool defender found out he was going just adds to the brilliance.
At the beginning of this season you'd have got long odds on Trent Alexander-Arnold going to Russia this summer. The Liverpool teenager had played just seven Premier League games in his career, all coming last season, before this term started.
As the season has gone on though the 19 year old has improved and become an integral part of Jurgen Klopp's side. He has played 19 league games and 11 Champions League games as the Reds have reached the final.
Alexander-Arnold was not picked for the March friendlies against Netherlands and Italy, instead staying with the under 21s, but did join the seniors for training. Clearly that session had an impact on the England manager.
Advert
With fellow Liverpool youngster Joe Gomez picking up an injury Alexander-Arnold has deservedly snuck into the squad but he didn't find out from Gareth Southgate. Speaking to Liverpool's website he revealed that Jurgen Klopp got the chance to tell him, saying:
"I'm honoured, excited and feeling really proud. It was an unbelievable moment to find out I was going to go to the World Cup, especially at a young age. It's probably capped off a really good season for me.
"I found out this morning, just before we came out to Marbella. The manager came and spoke to me just as we were getting on the plane.
"He asked me if I knew anything about the squad or anything yet. I said, 'no' and he said, 'Have you got anything planned around the time of the World Cup?' I was like, 'No, no holidays or anything...'
Advert
"He said to me, 'OK, good... You're in the squad!' It was a really proud moment. On England's behalf, it was nice of them to let the manager tell me."
It must have been a special moment for a player and manager who clearly have a close bond and the German has obviously done a lot for Alexander-Arnold's career in a relatively short time so far.
Advert
Alexander-Arnold is likely to face competition for the starting berth from Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker but he may, like Walker, be used as a centre back or possibly even in central midfield where he's played for the Reds recently.
It's been an incredible year for the 19 year old, it could still get even better!
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Liverpool, Football News, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Russia 2018, Premier League, England, Jurgen Klopp, Gareth Southgate, World Cup