The FA's Stance On Trent Alexander-Arnold Not Singing National Anthem Before England's Loss To Hungary

The FA's stance on players not singing the national anthem has emerged following Trent Alexander-Arnold courting controversy for his refusal.

Prior to England's 1-0 defeat to Hungary in Budapest on Saturday, the Liverpool right-back was seen not singing 'God Save The Queen'.

The vast majority of England's starting XI belted out the anthem but Alexander-Arnold, 23, stood there unmoved and did not sing along.

It prompted uproar from fans, who felt Alexander-Arnold was being disrespectful on the weekend of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Some even went as far as saying that he should not play for his country again.

The issue of players not singing the national anthems is not new as a few years ago. England record goalscorer Wayne Rooney was blasted for "not showing patriotism" when the tune sounded out over the tannoys.

Bob Peedle, Vice Chairman for Royal Society of St George, accused Rooney of not showing respect and offered to teach him the anthem's words.

That prompted a response from the FA, who said no England player is forced to sing the national anthem.

"Whether a player wishes to sing the national anthem or not is purely a personal choice," an FA spokesperson said.

"The reasons behind Wayne Rooney's decision not to sing is down to him.

"We know that every player certainly does care passionately and has enormous pride playing for England."

In light of Alexander-Arnold causing a stir, a clip of fellow right-back Gary Neville not singing the anthem at Euro '96 emerged online and went viral.

Whereas the likes of Gareth Southgate, Tony Adams and Stuart Pearce were full of passion, former Manchester United skipper Neville was not.

Prior to the FA Cup final win over Chelsea, Liverpool fans hit headlines when they booed the national anthem as well as the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William.

Asked about the jeers, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp replied: "The people do not do it for no reason".

Featured Image Credit: Image: PA & Channel 4

Topics: Trent Alexander-Arnold, England, Liverpool, Gary Neville

Josh Lawless

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