Jamie Carragher believes Trent Alexander-Arnold’s move to Real Madrid at the end of the season will tarnish his Liverpool legacy.
He was one of the standout performers for Liverpool in their 6-3 win over Tottenham, creating a game-high four chances and setting up Luis Diaz’s opener with a stunning cross.
No one in the Liverpool squad has created more chances in the Premier League this season (30, level with Mohamed Salah).
The 26-year-old is in the final year of his current deal, and has been heavily linked with a move to Madrid if he leaves Anfield, although Carragher believes that would diminish what he has done as a homegrown talent.
“It’s more than a football decision,” he told Sky Sports. “It’s about his legacy at Liverpool and how he’s viewed. Want to be seen as you are [Steven] Gerard or [Steve] McManaman?
“He went to Real Madrid and won the cup, but he was not loved.
“Trent has been a local player for 20 years. I don’t think it’s good to have the feeling of going free. I guarantee Liverpool fans will feel that way.
“As a local player things are expected of you. I think it’s difficult to leave Liverpool as a local player.
“I wanted to go the right way, so they remember me right.
“If he stays, he will be regarded as one of the best to play for the club and not far behind Gerrard.”
Liverpool moved four points clear at the top of the table after a thrilling win over Spurs, opening a gap on Chelsea, who dropped points in a 0-0 draw with Everton earlier on Sunday.
This is the 21st time Liverpool have topped the English top-flight on Christmas Day; Most in any direction. They have won the title in 11 of the previous 20 seasons (55%).
The Reds dominated at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, having 24 shots, half of which were on target and one hitting the woodwork, and produced 5.63 Expected Goals (xG), the highest tally by a team in the Premier League this season.
“It felt like a really big game,” Carragher said.
“Liverpool were outstanding and if you’re watching as Chelsea or Arsenal, you’re thinking, ‘This team is going to stop a bit’.
“It felt like a statement win – a performance by the champions-elect. They were very influential.”
