Klopp 'will knock them down' critics of Alexander-Arnold's defending

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp fiercely defended right back Trent Alexander-Arnold following the Reds' win over Arsenal on Wednesday. 

The full back starred at the Emirates as goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino helped Liverpool move within one point of title rivals Manchester City. 

While Alexander-Arnold's attacking talent has never been cast into doubt, he has often been criticised for his defending in the past. 

But following the 23-year-old's dazzling display against the Gunners, Klopp hit back at his critics, insisting he 'will knock them down.' 

The German also hailed Alexander-Arnold for coming up against Gabriel Martinelli, who he had previously praised following their FA Cup tie in January. 

'If anybody says that Trent cannot defend then they can come to me and I'll knock them down,' the manager told Sky Sports. 

'I cannot hear that any more, I don't know what more the boy has to do.

'Obviously both teams had spells of possession where the other team was patient and didn't want to step out, but we had to. 

'Trent did exceptionally well against Gabriel Martinelli.' 

Alexander-Arnold's left-back counterpart Andrew Robertson also impressed as he chipped in with the assist for the Reds' second goal. 

And Klopp will be heading back to Merseyside pleased with all his players after they hung on through a threatening first half from Arsenal to break the Gunners' resistance. 

The victory sees Liverpool extend their winning streak to nine games in the Premier League to stay hot on the heels of Pep Guardiola's side.