You've got to applaud Trent Alexander-Arnold.Not many football fans would have heard of him prior to the start of this season.The 19-year-old did not even start the campaign as the first choice right-back at Liverpool.But he’s taken every chance that has come his way.Not only has he established himself as Liverpool’s first choice right-back, but he seems a certainty to start in that position when the Reds play Real Madrid in the Champions League final on May 26.And now he has been handed a spot on the plane to Russia as part of England’s World Cup squad.What a story.

ALEXANDER-ARNOLD POSTS BRILLIANT INSTAGRAM POST

Alexander-Arnold was always seen as an outsider to make the tournament, but Gareth Southgate has clearly been impressed with the youngster.

And now the Liverpool born player has reacted to his call-up brilliantly on Instagram.

Alexander-Arnold posted a picture of him on his Instagram story looking at his phone with a rather confused face in reaction to an unknown number calling him.

The caption then read: “Good job I answered.”

Brilliant. Some may see it as a surprise, Alexander-Arnold may be surprised himself that he is on the plane, but his performances have merited his place among England’s 23-man squad.

Alexander Arnold also posted a photo of him representing the England youth teams, with the caption: “Dreamt of going to a World Cup since I was a kid. Today that dream came true, an honour to represent the 3 Lions this summer!”

A dream come true indeed.

GARETH SOUTHGATE EXCITED WITH YOUTH

Gareth Southgate is excited with the squad he is named, while also claiming that the Liverpool youngster thoroughly deserves his call-up.

"I believe this is a squad which we can be excited about," Southgate explained.

"It is a young group, but with some really important senior players so I feel the balance of the squad is good, both in terms of its experience, its character and also the positional balance.

"We have a lot of energy and athleticism in the team, but players that are equally comfortable in possession of the ball and I think people can see the style of play we've been looking to develop.

"The selection process has been over months really, it's not just been the last few weeks. We feel the team are improving and we want to continue that momentum.

“The first call-up for Trent Alexander-Arnold is well deserved. When we pick young players, it's not just because they are young, it's because their performances deserve it."

THE FINAL SQUAD:

What changes would you have made to England’s 23-man squad? Have your say by leaving a comment below.