Gary Lineker Supports Florian Wirtz Despite Liverpool Concerns
Florian Wirtz has had a slow start to his career at Liverpool, but Gary Lineker confidently supports the German international’s future at Anfield.
Wirtz’s Liverpool Debut and Performance
The Reds began their summer signings by acquiring Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in a then-British record deal worth £116 million. However, despite the high expectations, Wirtz has yet to score or assist in the Premier League. He was also a substitute in Liverpool's recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.
Lineker’s and Richards’ Views on Wirtz
Both Gary Lineker and Micah Richards see promise in Wirtz despite his slow adaptation. Lineker praised him as an "exceptional" talent, noting that Wirtz has proven his quality over time.
"At the moment he is not up to speed for the Premier League, but he spent £100m on him, but 100% it was the right decision that he made," Richards said on the Rest is Football podcast.
Richards also acknowledged Liverpool's significant losses in player quality, referring to the impact of losing key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold:
"I know we have talked about Trent (Alexander-Arnold) before and all that sort of thing; of course, you are going to miss that calibre of player. Liverpool now go back to what they did last season."
Outlook for Wirtz at Liverpool
Despite the scrutiny as a 22-year-old playmaker, experts believe Wirtz has the potential to thrive in the Premier League and become a key figure for Liverpool.
Summary
Gary Lineker and Micah Richards express confidence in Florian Wirtz’s ability to justify Liverpool’s record signing and succeed at Anfield after a cautious start.
Author’s summary: Gary Lineker affirms Florian Wirtz’s potential, emphasizing that despite a slow start, his talent justifies Liverpool’s £116m investment.