Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold admits it "hurts" that he hasn't been involved more often for England - and would embrace a move into midfield to bolster his international chances.
Alexander-Arnold, playing as right wing-back, laid on three assists as the Three Lions booked their place at next year's World Cup with a record-breaking 10-0 romp in their final qualifier at San Marino on Monday.
However, it was only the 23-year-old's fourth appearance in England's last 23 games, having been hampered by injury and failure to be selected for the squad.
While hugely influential at Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold has suffered due to the strong competition at right-back, with England coach Gareth Southgate having in the past 18 months been more inclined to turn to Kyle Walker, Reece James or Kieran Trippier.
And the Reds defender said: "Going off results and how far we have gone in tournaments, this is one of the best England teams ever.
"It's big to be in and around it. It's just when you set such high standards for yourself, it hurts when you don't play as much as you want to.
"It's a million dollar question in my mind, really. Why hasn't it clicked yet?
"There are two very different responsibilities (at Liverpool and England), different roles, different personnel.
"The best thing for me is feeling I have freedom out there. Of course, I've got defensive responsibilities and have to play a part for the team, but I have always felt I can play my best football when I can play (with freedom)."
Alexander-Arnold will now be determined to ensure his place in England's squad for the World Cup in Qatar next November having missed the summer's European Championships due to a thigh injury suffered in the closing moments of the penultimate warm-up friendly against Austria in June.
"Devastation," said the Liverpool defender, recalling his emotion at the time. "I missed out on probably the only home tournament I would have had a chance to play in.
"Just the pain - it's never a good sign when it hurts when you walk. A lot was disappointment and feeling sorry for myself, thinking I could have been there and should be there. The way the country got together and united was incredible.
"I need that as well. How am I going to make sure I get an opportunity in the future?"
Alexander-Arnold was selected in midfield by Southgate in England's win over Andorra in September, a move that was questioned by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.
The player, though, is keeping an open mind over where he would be best employed by the national team.
Asked by ITV Sport if he only had a future with England as a right-back, Alexander-Arnold replied: "No, I wouldn't say so. I don't like to put limitations on myself. I believe I have the ability to play in midfield.
"It's about finding the right time to make that transition potentially. As of right now, the main focus is trying to nail down a right-back spot. There's a lot more potential to be unlocked.
"What's the solution? I don't know. The biggest is to play, really. Play games.
"As a professional you want to have a legacy and have your name always being spoken about. I know I have it in me to reach whatever level. If I don't, it's only me who can be blamed for that."
