Florian Wirtz was in fine form as the Liverpool man registered two assists in Germany's 6-0 win over Slovakia
Florian Wirtz shone for Germany against SlovakiaView Image
Florian Wirtz recorded two assists for Germany on a good night for Liverpool's international contingent in World Cup qualifying, while two Reds stars got valuable rest ahead of the return to domestic action.
Summer signing Wirtz sparkled as Germany thrashed Slovakia 6-0 to secure qualification for next summer's tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico, with the £116m man registering his brace of assists for former Manchester City man Leroy Sane just before half-time.
German media outlet Sport 1 called Wirtz's display 'perfect', adding: “He was brimming with enthusiasm. He was the creative force in the German attack. He was everywhere on the pitch, orchestrating many of the German team’s attacks and shining as a provider of assists.
“Before the 3-0 goal, he played a monster pass from his own half to Sane, who was through on goal and slotted the ball past (Martin) Dubravka to make it 3-0. Later, he first won the ball back on the touchline and then delivered a perfect cross to Sane, who finished off Germany’s fourth goal.
“In the second half, he made several good defensive interceptions. He received thunderous applause when he was substituted (77th minute) – for his selfless dedication to the team, he deserves a perfect score.”
Elsewhere, the Netherlands also rubber stamped their place in the finals next summer with a 4-0 win over Lithuania, with Cody Gakpo scoring a penalty and recording an assist.
Former Dutch international Pierre van Hooijdonk was hugely complimentary of Gakpo after the game, telling Voetbal Zone: “I actually think Gakpo is the best player in this qualifying campaign. And even before that, actually. He’s just so strong, his physique is top-notch. And he also has his own individual moves.”
Gakpo played 79 minutes of the match, while Virgil van Dijk completed the whole 90. Ryan Gravenberch, however, was given the night off by Ronald Koeman and was an unused substitute.
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The rest for his vital midfielder will doubtless be welcomed by Arne Slot, who also saw Conor Bradley taken off at half-time in Northern Ireland's 1-0 win over Luxembourg.
With his side already assured of a playoff in March but with no chance of finishing higher than third in their group, boss Michael O'Neill removed Bradley at the break in order to protect him from a potential suspension.
Both the right-back and Gravenberch are expected to start for the Reds in Saturday's clash at home to Nottingham Forest.