Trent Alexander-Arnold says ‘exceptional and underrated’ Marcus Rashford is scaring defenders as Liverpool right-back is lyrical about Manchester United striker ahead of England v Senegal at World Cup

Trent Alexander-Arnold has sent a warning to Senegal over Marcus Rashford ahead of England’s Round of 16 World Cup game on Sunday.

Manchester United star Rashford enters the game with plenty of confidence after scoring two fine goals against Wales in England’s final group stage game.

The first was a superb free-kick, which was also the first direct free-kick scored at the World Cup, and the second was a brilliant solo effort.

Rashford started Qatar 2022 as a guaranteed substitute but is now the tournament’s co-top scorer and many are calling for the 25-year-old to start against Senegal.

Liverpool defender Alexander-Arnold, who has also found himself on the fringes of Gareth Southgate’s side, insists any defender would struggle against Rashford when he is in this sort of form.

Speaking to talkSPORT, the right-back said: “When he comes onto the pitch you think he’s going to use his pace, he’s going to use his speed to get behind, to get to people. He’s skilful, he can score goals, he can create goals.

“He’s someone, as defenders you don’t want to play against players like that because the whole game you worry about what they’re going to do, if they’re going to score, if they’re going to create .”

The Liverpool full-back speaks from experience, having faced Rashford in the Premier League on numerous occasions.

Alexander-Arnold believes the United striker has the talent to win a game and backs him to play a starring role for England in the Round of 16.

“To have him in your team, you know what the defenders think. He’s an exceptional player,” added Alexander-Arnold.

“I think he’s underrated, I think he’s someone who can win games for club and country.

“He has already shown that and I’m sure he will continue and do that. I think he’s someone who can help us win this tournament.