Florian Wirtz will surely be worried after what Liverpool boss Arne Slot just said
Liverpool star Florian Wirtz could be in danger of being dropped for the Newcastle clash on Monday.
The German’s performance went under the radar in Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Bournemouth, but he was actually quite effective.
Wirtz covered 11km against Bournemouth, second only to Liverpool teammate Szoboszlai and also created the joint most chances.
However, his starting chances against the Magpies on 25 August could be in question after a new admission from Arne Slot.
Arne Slot admission could leave Florian Wirtz sweating at Liverpool
Slot has admitted his pleasure with having Ryan Gravenberch available for selection again, after he missed the last two matches.
The Dutchman was absent from the Community Shield loss due to his partner giving birth and missed the win over the Cherries through suspension.
Slot confirmed that the 23-year-old will go straight back into his starting line-up for the clash at St James’ Park, saying: “We were at moments too open, we need to find the right balance.
“That balance will be better with Ryan, we now have to play Newcastle and Arsenal, who will normally be above Bournemouth in the league.
“With Macca and with Ryan in his normal position, I expect us to be better in these situations. If it leads to a goal, it’s a big story.
“For us, conceding two in a home game is too much.”
Why will Florian Wirtz be worried about what Arne Slot said
The admission from Slot basically confirms that there is one midfield slot available for the battle with Eddie Howe’s side.
Szoboszlai may be given the nod due to his familiarity with what Slot wants from his number 10, and his importance to the pressing system.
The Hungarian was the only Reds star to better Wirtz for distance covered in the opener, and the solidity that he offers could persuade his boss to stick with last season’s title-winning midfield and pick him over the £116million man.
| Stats | Szoboszlai | Wirtz |
| Chances created | 2 | 3 |
| Distance covered | 11.5km | 11km |
| Recoveries | 5 | 6 |
| Ground duels won | 6/11 (55%) | 3/8 (38%) |
Slot may decide that Wirtz is a better option from the bench rather than being thrown into the deep end in a hostile atmosphere, with the 22-year-old’s ability to pick apart defences might be beneficial against tired legs.
He could feature from the left flank, with Cody Gakpo dropping to the bench, but the Dutchman’s form from the flank in pre-season and exploits against Andoni Iraola’s side make that an unlikely possibility.
Wirtz will eventually star for the Anfield outfit, he is too talented not to, but he may have to oust Szoboszlai to do so.
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