Ian Wright has thrown his weight behind Trent Alexander-Arnold amid heavy criticism of the out-of-sorts Liverpool star.
Alexander-Arnold has clearly been struggling for form in recent fixtures and has not been his usual self since suffering a calf injury in November.
The England right-back endured a particularly miserable showing during Monday's 1-0 defeat by Southampton, with an unwanted statistic leading to calls for his dropping.
His defensive displays have been shaky and he has struggled to live up to the lofty creative standards he has set himself over the last two seasons, picking up two assists in 15 Premier League games.
But Wright insists Alexander-Arnold remains one of the leading players in his position in the world - and urged the player's critics to remember he is just 23 years old.
“With Trent, people cannot wait to try and bring him down,” the Arsenal legend told his Wrighty's House podcast .
“We’re still talking about arguably one of the best right-backs in the world. He’s going through a period.
“Remember how old Trent is and he’s playing in a team who are meant to be blasting all before them and putting pressure on you. Come on.”
Former England and Liverpool goalkeeper David James was among the onlookers calling for Alexander-Arnold to be dropped after his performance at St Mary's.
He said: "Trent didn’t offer anything. The crossing opportunities weren’t good enough.
“Everyone is entitled to one bad game. Trent’s performances of late, when you collect them together, haven’t been great.
“Do you drop him, or do you rest him? The word dropped sounds somewhat final. I think it’s giving someone a breather. I think he needs a rest.”
Alexander-Arnold has managed 19 appearances in all competitions this season despite missing nearly a month through injury.
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