Former Watford midfielder and current pundit Troy Deeney launched a scathing assessment of Florian Wirtz’s display during Liverpool’s 1-0 triumph over Bournemouth.
Speaking to talkSPORT following the match, Deeney offered a pointed evaluation of the German playmaker’s overall contribution.
He stated: “He just doesn’t look like he belongs in this league. What I mean by that is, he’s clearly talented; he possesses obvious technical quality.
“But it’s as though he doesn’t believe he’s going to score or make a difference. Liverpool need more from him.”
Deeney went on to highlight how Wirtz’s apparent hesitancy is disrupting the team’s rhythm during matches:
“The rest of the squad are starting to lose faith because every time the ball reaches him, the tempo drops. And when they recover it, the entire flow is slowed down. Iraola, who was watching from just in front of us, was absolutely furious.”
Florian Wirtz yet to justify Liverpool price tag
Deeney’s stern remarks come as Wirtz continues to face scrutiny over whether he has lived up to the expectations surrounding his record transfer from Bayer Leverkusen.
While occasional flashes of his world-class technical ability have impressed, the German international has tallied just seven goals and 11 assists across 55 appearances for the Reds, fueling mounting frustration among both pundits and fans.
In Sunday’s encounter at the Vitality Stadium, Wirtz made little definitive impact during the opening period and was eventually taken off in the 71st minute.
Jamie Carragher also drew attention to the playmaker’s lack of output during his commentary appearance, dismissing his first-half performance as “nothing”.
Although head coach Andoni Iraola referenced Wirtz’s involvement in the buildup leading to Alexander Isak’s decisive goal, Deeney’s blunt critique reflects the increasing pressure on the 23-year-old to produce consistent performances in English football’s top flight.
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