Klopp: How Trent and Robbo stepped up is testimony to their character
Jürgen Klopp uses his Fulham programme notes to highlight the contributions of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson on and off the pitch this season.
The pair have been consistent figures in Liverpool's starting backline in 2020-21, while there have been a series of different centre-half partnerships used by the Reds due to injuries.
And the boss has praised his full-back duo for how they continue to handle testing and unpredictable scenarios.
Klopp writes: "It is always the case, but even more so at times like this, that each and every member of our squad must keep themselves at the highest level at all times.
"It is clear the success we have enjoyed here has always been built on the importance of the collective, that none of us achieve anything without the contribution of everyone.
"An area of the pitch where we have maintained some stability of selection has been in the full-back positions. But that isn't to say the other players who can feature in that position aren't ready and able to play their part. Neco and Kostas have outstanding attitudes to go with their tremendous ability.
"It is unfortunate circumstances surrounding the injury issues we have had in central defence that has undoubtedly impacted on the opportunities we've been able to give to the other full-backs.
"I'm sure by the time these notes are read it will have been well-trailed that after Chelsea we have now played with 19 different centre-half partnerships. So, stability for certain areas of the defence has been needed.
"I know our supporters have huge admiration and affection for Robbo and Trent and therefore any praise from me for them is preaching to the choir. However, the way both have stepped up again this season, in different ways, is testimony to their quality and their character.
"Trent had a disrupted pre-season with illness. It was a short build-up anyway, so to miss all of it was a blow to him. He also had the injury away to Manchester City, when he was in top form, which took away the momentum he was building into the season.
"And in typical Trent fashion he came back from that issue ahead of schedule to help the team during a period where we were losing players on an all-too-regular basis, helped in no way by the schedule inflicted on the boys. But as he always does – Trent finds a way.
"His form at the moment is of a top level. It is of course what we expect of him and what he expects of himself. He's still developing and learning. I love his commitment to self-improvement.
"I think the manner and level he plays the second half of this season, when the team is not always flying results-wise, reflects what an incredible player and person this young man is."
He continues: "Andy Robertson has been so consistent for us and is without doubt a leader in our dressing room. The public often sees the 'fun' Robbo when he's doing media appearances or is caught on camera with his teammates. But that persona sometimes hides his other qualities.
"Incredibly brave, incredibly smart and someone who is very serious about his work. You don't become one of the best players in the world in your position without being the complete package.
"We appreciate him and his contribution like crazy at the moment and I hope he recognises just how important he and his personal qualities have been to this group during a challenging time.
"Having these two wonderful players isn't a block for the others, though, and I want supporters to know Neco and Kostas will have a huge part to play in whatever outcome we have at the end of this campaign. In training they look sharp and ready – this is how it must be. It applies across the squad, in all positions.
"We fight for everything we can between now and May. To have any chance of achieving something special, we will need everyone. A team doesn't create special seasons – a squad does. And the faith and belief I have in ours is absolute."
