Former Bayer Leverkusen winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has backed both Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz to shine in the Premier League.
The pair will play in the English top flight for the first time next season having completed summer moves to Liverpool from Leverkusen. As Dutch and German internationals, both arrive at Anfield with high hopes, especially Wirtz, who has cost Liverpool a record-breaking £100 million ($135M) initial fee.
But given the physical demands of the Premier League, it is not uncommon for foreign players to find adapting difficult. Hudson-Odoi, who played with Frimpong and Wirtz at the Bayer Arena, does not think that will be a problem.
“[They’re] amazing players, good people as well,” the Nottingham Forest star told Sky Sports. “Very good people and have amazing talent. I hope the best for them in the Premier League.
“They’re amazing people to be around - good energy, and I speak to them as much as possible, tell them what the Premier League is like. It’s tough, but I think they’ll adapt well. [They’re] very good players, and hopefully they do well.
“I spoke to Jeremie about it,” Hudson-Odoi added. “Every player adapts differently, and I hope he adjusts quickly and does well.”
Frimpong's signing was Liverpool's first of the summer
Frimpong's signing was Liverpool's first of the summer (Image: Getty Images)
In Wirtz, Liverpool has completed one of the most exciting Premier League transfers in recent years. At 22, he is seen as one of the brightest young players on the planet, has won the Bundesliga Player of the Season in each of the last two years, and has already earned 31 German caps.
His versatility is also seen as an exciting prospect for Liverpool, with Wirtz capable of playing as a No. 10, false nine, or in the wide areas.
“He can play anywhere; he’s a talented player,” said Hudson-Odoi. “He’s got the ability to create anything out of nothing. He can play anywhere in the team.
“I think he’ll be a big asset to Liverpool, and I think he’s a great player. It’s an amazing thing that he’s in the Premier League as well.”
Wirtz's transfer was confirmed on Friday
Wirtz's transfer was confirmed on Friday (Image: Getty Images)
The pair are expected to make their Premier League debuts when Liverpool hosts Bournemouth in the season opener on August 15.
Frimpong and Wirtz will meet up with their new teammates on July 7, and could play their first unofficial game six days later when Liverpool travels to Preston North End for a preseason friendly.
The Reds will then fly to Asia for warm-up games against AC Milan and Yokohama. The final preseason fixture comes on August 4 when Athletic Bilbao travels to Anfield for two back-to-back games.
A trip to Wembley and the Community Shield against Crystal Palace beckons, just five days before the start of the new Premier League season.