Teenage Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has penned a fresh deal with the Merseysiders.
A statement, published on the official club website on Friday evening confirming the development, began: “Trent Alexander-Arnold has committed his future to Liverpool by signing a new long-term contract at Melwood today.
“The 18-year-old penned the deal at the training ground – where he has been part of the group that began pre-season training on Wednesday – after agreeing fresh terms with the club.”
According to the Liverpool ECHO, Alexander-Arnold’s latest contract runs until the end of the 2021/22 season and is in recognition of his continued development since a previous extension was penned in November.
The club’s reigning Young Player of the Year made 12 first team appearances during a breakthrough campaign last term, including seven in the Premier League.
Alexander-Arnold, who is a full-back by trade but can also play in midfield, is expected to push established right-back Nathaniel Clyne for a regular starting spot in 2017/18.
Speaking via Liverpoolfc.com shortly after putting pen to paper, the player reflected: “It’s exciting, a proud moment for me and my family. I’m excited for the good times ahead, hopefully.
“But I’ve said before, the hard work definitely doesn’t stop now. It’s only just beginning. Hopefully I’ll have many more moments like last season in this season and the seasons to come.
“I can’t take it for granted, the position and opportunity I’ve been given. Every day I’m trying to maximise the opportunity and do well.”
Of Alexander-Arnold and his contract extension, Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp commented: “It is fantastic news and brilliant that the club have again rewarded his progress.
“I think our appeal to young players with the right attitude is clear: if they commit to their football we will make sure we do well for their present and futures.
“Trent and the people he has in his life – personally and professionally – make such smart decisions. I love that he is so humble, yet has such big ambitions. This is a wonderful mixture.
“The club have made it clear to all our young players that as they grow and improve so will our commitment to them. This is an example of that. We offer opportunity – that’s key to what we believe in – but we also offer a culture where progress is rewarded. Trent has earned this new deal.”
Alexander-Arnold, who hails from near Liverpool’s Melwood training complex in West Derby, joined the club’s Academy in 2004 at the age of six.
The England youth international is likely to be involved when Klopp’s men begin their pre-season friendly schedule at Tranmere Rovers on Wednesday evening.
