Florian Wirtz brutally axed as two stars return – Liverpool predicted XI vs Arsenal
Liverpool manager Arne Slot could drop Florian Wirtz when the Reds host Arsenal on Sunday.
The Reds survived a Newcastle comeback to extend their 100 per cent record in the Premier League with a 3-2 win, with Rio Ngumoha becoming Liverpool’s youngest ever goalscorer with his late winner.
Liverpool signed Wirtz for a £116million fee earlier this summer, but so far, he has failed to hit the heights expected of him.
Dominik Szoboszlai, Wirtz’s competition for the number 10 position, was forced to play at right-back against the Magpies, but the two may be fighting it out for a place against the Gunners.
Arne Slot gets a welcome boost in Liverpool’s backline for Arsenal clash
Alisson made one save and 10 recoveries in Liverpool’s win over the Magpies, per Fotmob, and is expected to retain his place against Mikel Arteta’s side.
Conor Bradley returned at St James’ Park in a 10-minute cameo, and he might be fit enough to start against the Gunners in a welcome boost for Slot.
Virgil van Dijk is predicted to be partnered by Ibrahima Konate, despite the France international’s poor display against the Geordies, leading to calls for Liverpool to sign Crystal Palace ace Marc Guehi.
| Stats | Konate |
| Dribbled past | 1 |
| Recoveries | 1 |
| Ground duels won | 2/4 (50%) |
| Fouls committed | 1 |
Milos Kerkez also had a shaky performance, but the Hungary star seems to be Slot’s preferred option at left-back, so he is expected to start.
Alexis Mac Allister set to return against Arsenal
Ryan Gravenberch played his first game of the new campaign last time out, but he was not partnered by Alexis Mac Allister, who missed out due to a fitness issue.
The Argentina ace is expected to be back for the Anfield contest, so it is a Gravenberch-Mac Allister pivot expected against the Gunners.
Szoboszlai is absolutely vital to the Reds’ pressing system, and he is expected to get the nod over Wirtz due to his familiarity with the role and the fact that he stepped up in big games last season.
- Szoboszlai made 10 passes into the final third against Newcastle, despite playing as a right-back
- The Hungarian made four recoveries and four clearances from an unfamiliar position
Mohamed Salah is predicted to retain his spot on the right wing; his last-gasp assist for the winner at Newcastle was stunning, as was Szoboszlai’s decision to step over the ball.
Ngumoha will be chomping at the bit to start after his exploits against Newcastle, but Cody Gakpo is expected to continue over the youth gem, especially in such a huge game.
Hugo Ekitike continued his impressive start to life on Merseyside, with his third goal in as many games, so he is predicted to lead the line against Arteta’s side.
Slot’s side can reinforce their title defence with a victory against their biggest rivals for the prize, and they have the firepower to do so.
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