Alexander-Arnold’s Surprise Reunion
This weekend, Trent Alexander-Arnold might run into someone he knows. Accrington Stanley’s manager, John Doolan, is hoping to reconnect with him before their big match against Liverpool. Doolan used to coach at Liverpool’s academy, where he first noticed Alexander-Arnold’s skills.
Doolan remembers spotting Alexander-Arnold’s talent when he was just six years old. Even though a lot of time has passed, he’s hopeful they will connect again when Accrington plays at Anfield on Saturday. Doolan said, “I looked after Trent when he was six or seven. He might not remember, but his mom, Diane, might. We talked a lot.” Alexander-Arnold’s Surprise Reunion.
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Early Talent Spotted
Back then, Alexander-Arnold played as a center-forward and stood out. “He scored with both feet and glided past defenders. He had real talent,” Doolan said.
Later, when Doolan came back to Liverpool, he saw Alexander-Arnold playing as a center-back. “That’s why he’s so good at right-back now. He’s turned into a world-class player,” Doolan added. He hopes the reunion will help Trent recall those early days and give him a chance to see Diane too.
The Odds Against Accrington
Liverpool and Accrington are 86 places apart in the league. Accrington is 19th in League Two and faces a tough task against the Premier League leaders, even if Liverpool puts in some second-string players. Doolan knows it won’t be easy. “We understand the challenge. We’re talking about Liverpool Football Club,” he said.
Recent snow messed up Accrington’s training plans, forcing them to practice indoors and do spin and yoga sessions instead. Still, Doolan is optimistic. “Liverpool could have a bad game, and we could have a great one. That’s the magic of the cup.”
A Personal Edge
Doolan, a lifelong Everton fan, is excited to face Liverpool. “I can’t count how many times I’ve gone home after a derby loss,” he said with a grin.
Accrington’s 4,700 fans will enjoy the moment, and Doolan is focused on making it a special day. “These chances might not come around again for the players or the club. We want to enjoy it, but our aim is to put on a strong show and move on to the next round.”
