Florian Wirtz has insisted he’s “very happy” at Liverpool despite the club enduring a “difficult” period littered with disappointing results.
The Reds suffered another setback on Wednesday night as they were held to a 1–1 draw by high-flying Sunderland at Anfield and Arne Slot’s men were arguably fortunate to come away with anything following another underwhelming display.
After the improved weekend victory at West Ham United, Liverpool regressed against the Black Cats, struggling to create clear-cut opportunities and once again looking vulnerable at the back.
Chemsdine Talbi’s 67th-minute strike saw Liverpool staring at a third successive home defeat, but Wirtz proved their saviour eight minutes from time. The German’s deflected strike provided an invaluable equaliser, although what appeared a first goal for his new employers actually turned out to be a Nordi Mukiele own goal.
Wirtz, who impressed against Sunderland after an encouraging weekend display, was made aware of his misfortune after the whistle during a post-match interview.
“It doesn’t matter for me. We draw. We wanted to win. That’s what counts today. Unlucky,” responded the attacking to midfielder to the news.
Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz has just three assists in 17 Liverpool matches. / Ralf Ibing/firo sportphoto/Getty Images
Wirts has made a slow start to life on Merseyside following his £116 million ($154.5 million) move from Bayer Leverkusen, but recent matches suggest he’s beginning to hit his stride. Despite a tame beginning in Liverpool colours, the 22-year-old remains upbeat.
“First of all, I was very welcomed by the team. It’s a very good team and I’m very happy to be here,” Wirtz revealed after the Sunderland draw. “Of course, the last weeks have been difficult for us as a team, but we are on a good way to come back.
“We are doing everything to come back and win games. We wanted the win today. We want to be on top of the table, we just have to continue and work hard. Hopefully things can change.”
Wirtz will be crucial to Liverpool’s reinvigoration, with the Reds having lacked cutting edge and decisive quality in the final third lately. Poor results have seen them drop down to eighth in the table and they are currently as close to the relegation zone as they are league leaders Arsenal.
The Germany international will be desperate to finally open his account for the club and will have the opportunity to end his drought at Leeds United on Saturday.
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