England head coach Thomas Tuchel's apparent lack of trust in Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a defining feature of his time in charge. The 27-year-old right-back has won a Premier League title at Liverpool then moved to Real Madrid since he last started for England, selected as a left-back by interim manager Lee Carsley when scoring in a 3-1 Nations League win in Finland in October 2024.

He was ignored for England's World Cup squad last summer, despite right-back being a cursed role for Tuchel. So Tuchel's decision to recall Alexander-Arnold for this four-game Nations League camp came as a surprise. Against this backdrop, Alexander-Arnold became the ninth right-back used by Tuchel in 24 games when he finally got his start against Czech Republic in Prague.

With something to prove, Alexander-Arnold delivered one world-class moment. Two minutes after the break, he regained possession before unfurling a magnificent right-foot delivery for Anthony Gordon to score with a stooping header. Tuchel told BBC Radio 5 Live: "He did very well. He had an excellent assist. We never doubted that he can produce these kinds of assists."

Gordon said: "Only a certain number of players have that ability, technique and bravery. That's why he's so good." The defensive questions must wait, but Alexander-Arnold deserves the opportunity to provide answers.