Iraola backs Wirtz to thrive despite slow assist tally
- Source
- Liverpool EchoLocal press
- By
- liverpool.news@trinitymirror.com (Ian Doyle)
- Published
Key points
- Iraola dismisses focus on statistics, insisting Wirtz's overall play matters more than output
- Wirtz has one assist this season but created chances others have failed to convert
- Liverpool's new attacking setup with Barcola and Munoz still bedding in, says manager
AI summary
Andoni Iraola has defended Florian Wirtz against criticism of his goal contributions, arguing that the 23-year-old's performance and work rate are what count. The Liverpool manager noted Wirtz covered more ground than any teammate in the Champions League win over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday and runs similar distances to number 10s at rival clubs.
Iraola believes Wirtz will flourish as Liverpool's preferred attacking midfielder once he fully understands the positioning preferences of new signings Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz. The manager stressed that collective play, not individual statistics, drives success.
Original headline
Andoni Iraola 'not worried' by Florian Wirtz and dismisses Liverpool debate - 'He will learn'
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