Reece James defends England teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold

says People who doubt

's skills "don't know the game." The highly-rated

Chelsea

right-back is in direct competition with his Liverpool counterpart for a spot on Gareth Southgate's England team for the World Cup later this year.

and

Kieran Trippier

are also in Southgate's current squad, giving him a lot of options for the right side of his defense. James started for the Three Lions in Saturday's 0-0 Nations League draw with Italy at Molineux. He said that while he wants to be his country's first choice, he doesn't agree with those who criticize Alexander-Arnold's skills.

The Liverpool player is often criticized for how he defends, and some people blame him for the goal that

Real Madrid

's Vinicius Junior scored against the Reds in the Champions League final last month.

But in 32 Premier League games last season, the 23-year-old kept 17 clean sheets, which was more than any other England right-back, even if you look at it per 90 minutes.

James said, "I'll do everything I can to be the first choice." "What I can do will only be clear when I show what I can do. I hope to show that I'm ready to play every game in these games and as we move into next season.

"I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary, so both of us are still learning how to play the game. Liverpool has the ball 95% of the time, and he has to defend less than I do. People have a lot to say, but they don't understand how the game works. Trent is an excellent athlete."

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