2 hours ago
34
Liverpool star Florian Wirtz says he is happy to play anywhere for Arne Slot after excelling on the left wing against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
In what was comfortably his best performance in a Liverpool jersey to date, Wirtz created several chances for his teammates and put in a big shift off the ball too. Ahead of the weekend's trip to Manchester City, he is hoping to retain his place in the starting XI over Cody Gakpo in one of the few selection decisions Slot must make.
"I just enjoyed to play first of all because I wasn’t sure if I would play, so I was happy that I could play," Wirtz told the Reds' official website. "I just take the position the manager wants me to play.
"Of course I am familiar with this position but I can also play just in the middle, in the 10 or on the left, and I just try to always give my best and to be important for the team.
"I think I have already a good connection with my teammates on the pitch. Of course the numbers are not there now but I just try to give my best every game — that’s what I always do — and I’m happy that I can create some chances.
"Hopefully in the next weeks and months, we can score more but I am just trying to help the team with my strengths."
While Wirtz has not scored or assisted in the Premier League so far, he has been best for Liverpool in Europe. The challenge now for the whole team is to translate that form from the Real Madrid game into domestic matters.
"I think it was very important also for our group, also for the whole club, for the atmosphere, also in the stadium," Wirtz said.
"We are really happy that we could win two times now and hopefully another time on the weekend, then going with a good feeling into the international break.
"I have to say, I think against Madrid now it was the craziest atmosphere since I am here. I really enjoyed it, how the fans celebrated every action we did.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
"I'm very thankful that they supported us like this. [I am] looking forward to more nights like this.
"I think the game against Madrid really helps to get in the right energy and on the same level it will be on Sunday. I think it was a good test and we are ready to compete again."
Liverpool.com says: Wirtz is such a talent and he doesn't shirk the defensive responsibilities either. In time, he is going to be an excellent player for the Reds; he just needs a little more time to adapt.
English (US) ·