Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has sprung to the defence of Trent Alexander Arnold, insisting the right-back remains world-class despite his England exclusion.
The 23-year-old was called up by Gareth Southgate for the two Nations League matches against Italy and Germany, but failed to make the squad for either game and his World Cup prospects look slim.
There has been a long-running debate as to why he cannot fit into the international side. And while Klopp admits the two teams' tactics are completely different, he would not want any other right-back in his team despite his apparent defensive deficiencies, for which he is criticised.
"We are fine here because it's completely different because I see him differently. It's obvious," said Klopp.
"There are stories out there all the time that talk about him and say he's not a good defender, but that's not true.
"He is a good defender. He doesn't always defend good, that is true as well, but that is what we're working on. He is a young player, he is 23.
"My point of view, it's an easy pick. Whichever team I would coach in the moment, I would sign him because he is exceptional.
"Is he always exceptional? No."
Left-back Andy Robertson will miss the visit of Brighton to Anfield due to a knee injury sustained before the international break.
Kostas Tsimikas is set to deputise, while fellow defender Ibrahima Konate is back in training and could rejoin the squad having been injured in a pre-season friendly.
Forwards Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez missed Thursday's training session due to their late arrival back from international duty but are expected to be involved.
New Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi will be without midfielder Enock Mwepu for his first match. Mwepu had to return early from international duty with Zambia after falling unwell and will sit out.
Adam Lallana (calf) has returned to training and could face his former club but fellow midfielder Jakub Moder (knee) is a long-term absentee.
Republic of Ireland U-21 striker Evan Ferguson is in the squad.
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