Several Liverpool players have come under fire following their performances in the weekend’s thrilling Merseyside derby against Everton. Despite securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory, questions hang over some of the club’s high-profile summer acquisitions.
Liverpool raced into a commanding position early on, with goals from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike putting Arne Slot’s men two goals to the good. However, a second-half comeback effort from Everton saw Idrissa Gueye claw one back, adding tension to the affair as Liverpool clung on to victory. This win marks Liverpool’s fifth consecutive in the Premier League this season, propelling them six points clear at the summit.
Manager Arne Slot made four changes from the side that edged Atletico Madrid in a midweek Champions League fixture. Both Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, having started on the bench, entered the fray late on but failed to make a significant mark as Liverpool sought to preserve their lead.
The young German midfielder, Wirtz, has drawn particular attention for his lukewarm display. Awarded a 6/10 by GOAL, his performance was described as showing “glimpses of his quality” yet “arguably not doing enough to justify his substantial £116m transfer fee.” Similarly, Alexander Isak received a 6/10, with pundits suggesting he “adds an extra bit of quality” but may struggle to displace Ekitike from the starting eleven.
It wasn’t all bleak for the Merseysiders, as Slot’s tactical nous was praised for the side’s swift start, though he will be disappointed with the way Liverpool allowed Everton back into the game. Specific criticism was also levelled at others in the squad. Conor Bradley and Dominic Szoboszlai, for instance, earned 5/10 ratings for their lacklustre contributions.
Further criticism was directed at summer signing Milos Kerkez. The Hungarian left-back, another who received a 6/10, was labelled “a bit sloppy,” and concerns grow over his adjustment to life at Anfield.
Prominent broadcaster Richard Keys expressed doubts over Wirtz’s suitability for the Premier League’s demanding environment. Reflecting on his subdued performances, Keys questioned, “Does that mean he [Wirtz] doesn’t have the tools that are required to play in the hurly-burly of the Premier League when games matter?”
Liverpool fans will undoubtedly hope that their new acquisitions find their feet soon as the Reds continue their pursuit of domestic and European glory.
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