'He doesn't always defend good, that's true. He's 23, we're working on it': Jurgen Klopp admits he understands why Trent Alexander-Arnold is snubbed by England... but still says Liverpool's right back is 'world class' 

Jurgen Klopp has admitted Trent Alexander-Arnold has work to do defensively, but insisted the right back is still 'world class'.

The 23-year-old's form has dipped this season as Liverpool have struggled to match the results fans have become accustomed to under Klopp.

He has also fallen out of favour with Gareth Southgate, with Reece James starting at right back in England's last game.

Speaking ahead of Liverpool's clash with Brighton this weekend, Klopp seemed guarded when asked about Alexander-Arnold. He said: 'Do we really want to open this box? You are English journalists and we cannot discuss selections until the World Cup starts.

'This is why you make massive things of this. My honest opinion would create headlines. You want that? It would maybe help Germany but it wouldn't help England.

'I have a lot of things to say but I don't think it makes sense. We are fine here, it's completely different. I see Trent differently, that's clear.

The manager also pointed out that the right back is still young and can be expected to develop. He continued: 'People talk about him not being a good defender, that's not true, he is a good defender, he doesn't always defend good, that's true.

'He's 23. We're working on it. Whatever team I would have at the moment, I would pick Trent. He is exceptional.

When quizzed on Southgate's decision to leave out Alexander-Arnold, Klopp sympathised but disagreed. 

'England are blessed with players in this position,' he said. 'Reece James can play three at the back, did that well for Chelsea.

'It's Gareth's decision. He made it. I see it different. Doesn't mean [it's] right or wrong.

'Trent came back not in a party mood but he accepts the manager's decision because he is extremely bright.

'The manager decides and more often than not here it is the case he is picked. It's clear, he's a world-class player.'