Wirtz overcoming criticism to emerge as Liverpool's playmaker
Goal reported that after early criticism, including Gary Neville saying he looked like a "little boy", Florian Wirtz has begun producing improved displays for Liverpool. Early doubts centred on his physique and how he fit into Liverpool's system, with Wayne Rooney and Neville questioning his impact.
Dimitar Berbatov urged patience, saying Wirtz would be a success, while Danny Murphy argued that his initial record of zero goals or assists in his first 16 Premier League appearances was misleading. Wirtz's form shifted after Alexander Isak converted a through-ball from him at Tottenham; he scored his first Liverpool goal against Wolves and, after a precise finish from Mohamed Salah's pass at Newcastle, has six goals in his last 10 appearances in all competitions.
He has also developed a strong partnership with Hugo Ekitike, the pair combining for more goals than any other Premier League duo this season (six).