Trent Alexander-Arnold faced boos from some Liverpool supporters during his substitute appearance against Arsenal on Sunday - and Gary Lineker has admitted he wasn't too pleased.
The 26-year-old right-back, who recently announced his decision to leave the Reds, was making his first appearance since revealing his exit plans.
The hostile reception came despite Alexander-Arnold's status as a local player who has spent his entire career at his boyhood club.
While many fans applauded the England international, others made their bitter feelings known towards the Champions League winner.
Gary Lineker backed Trent Alexander Arnold's decision to follow his dream
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Alexander-Arnold would have been preparing for such a reaction since deciding to exit Liverpool in March.
Even so, the defender was likely disappointed to hear loud boos when he replaced Conor Bradley during the match.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot had previously praised Alexander-Arnold's commitment to the club despite his impending departure.
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Arne Slot has backed Trent Alexander Arnold until he leaves the club.
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For the most part, his cameo against Arsenal was bright, though he did play Mikel Merino onside for the equalising goal.
This mistake may suggest he was having a difficult time under the testing circumstances.
Gary Lineker expressed his disappointment at the booing on the Rest Is Football podcast.
"When Trent Alexander-Arnold came on as sub, there were a lot of boos. It grated on me, I didn't like that, after what he's done," said the former England striker.
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"He's a local lad, he's come through the ranks, he's given everything, he's won everything for that club."
Lineker defended Alexander-Arnold's decision to join Real Madrid, adding: "It's his life, it's his career... I just found that a bit disappointing."
Alan Shearer echoed Lineker's sentiments about the treatment of Alexander-Arnold.
"I don't like that, I don't like fans booing players. After what he's done for Liverpool," said the Premier League's all-time top scorer.
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Trent Alexander Arnold has been with Liverpool for 20 years
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Shearer acknowledged it was likely only a minority of supporters involved.
"I totally respect and admire the Liverpool fans because of who and what they are and they're a great football club," he added.
"But whoever they were who were booing him, come on man! Is it that bad? Not a good look for me."
Despite the difficult reception, Alexander-Arnold's performance against Arsenal showed glimpses of his quality.
However, the Champions League winner did have a challenging moment when he played Merino onside for the equalising goal.
The incident has sparked debate about how departing players should be treated, particularly those like Alexander-Arnold who have come through the club's academy and contributed significantly to Liverpool's recent successes.
