'I joked': Jack Grealish shares what he told Trent Alexander-Arnold right before his goal v Finland

10/13/2024 01:24 PM

England saw off Finland tonight as they got back to winning ways in Helsinki and give Lee Carsley a good result to finish off the latest international break.

Carsley had come in for criticism after losing to Greece in midweek but there were no such issues tonight.

Goals from Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Declan Rice ensured a comfortable win for the Three Lions in the end.

Of course, the free-kick from Trent was a stunner and despite being called out for his defensive work by Roy Keane again, the Liverpool man showed his worth.

And speaking about that free-kick, Jack Grealish has claimed he had a little side bet with the Liverpool man just before he took it.

Jack Grealish reveals Trent Alexander-Arnold bet just before his free-kick v Finland

Speaking to the media after the game, Grealish admitted he’d given Trent a little incentive to fire the free-kick into the top corner.

“We could have had a few more but it was difficult at times,” Grealish said.

“The goal came from the manager letting us play with that freedom. I play with Angel Gomes in training and I know what a top player he is. The celebration was for my little daughter.

“I joked to Trent [Alexander-Arnold] before the free-kick ‘score this I will give you 500 quid’ and he slapped it in top bin.

“Whatever happens with the England manager, people will always say negative stuff.

“Before people were crying out for all attacking players to play and it didn’t work. I don’t get it, it can happen in games. I love coming here, a top, top manager and I love playing for him.”

Grealish and Trent key for Carsley’s England

Whether or not Lee Carsley gets the job full-time is another matter entirely. But for now, Trent and Grealish are key for the interim boss.

Alexander-Arnold proved what he can bring to the table while Grealish has been excellent every time he’s been picked by Carsley so far.

England have an abundance of talent in the squad but clearly, Carsley is a fan of Grealish and what he brings to the team.

And with Trent also producing big moments like tonight, the next few games should be comfortable enough for the Three Lions.