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Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz has been heavily critcized since his move to Merseyside, but one former Manchester City star believes the judgement is misplaced.
Wirtz is yet to show his full potential and is now set for a spell on the sidelines after picking up a muscle injury while on international duty. The 22-year-old earned widespread praise after standing out in Germany’s dominant 6–0 win over Slovakia in its World Cup qualifier. Starting on the left, he set up both of Leroy Sane’s goals with two very different but equally superb passes, showcasing his vision and creativity throughout the match.
Many believe that Wirtz will soon start racking up the goals and assists for Liverpool in the Premier League.
Former City striker Paul Dickov has shown understanding toward Wirtz, noting that the German international’s adaptation has been made more difficult by the poor form of those around him.
“I feel a little bit for him", said Dickov. He came with a huge price tag. He’s obviously a talented player, we all know that.
"But he’s come into the team and sometimes when you move to a big club like Liverpool, you need your teammates around you to perform and to help you settle in a little bit.
“You look at Liverpool’s form, and the big players are struggling at the minute and it makes it even more difficult for somebody of Wirtz’ age (22).
"He is young, and even somebody so talented would struggle to come into this team and hit that ground running."
Dickov believes the German’s dip in form this season is largely a result of several of his Reds teammates failing to reach their own standards.
“At any point in any time in your career you’re going to have spells where things aren’t happening, and you look for your teammates to try and help you out a little bit" said Dickov in an interview with Essential Football.
"I don’t see that in Liverpool at the minute I just think there’s too many players that are underperforming for them. And it really does make it even more difficult for new signings coming in to settle as quickly as they would like.”
The 53-year-old also hit back at claims from Arsene Wenger that Liverpool destroyed its midfield to accommodate Wirtz.
The Scotsman added: "I don't know about destroying the midfield. You look at the last couple of games, he's actually played in that wide left area.
"Liverpool generally do best with Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch in the middle of the park. They make it difficult to play against them with their energy."
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