Florian Wirtz played a key role as Jurgen Klopp got his first win as Germany boss, bagging a goal and an assist as he continues to fight to win over his critics for club and country
Florian Wirtz and Jurgen Klopp embraced after the final whistle
Florian Wirtz and Jurgen Klopp embraced after the final whistle(Image: X / @inamediaa)
Jürgen Klopp was unable to conceal his delight for Liverpool star Florian Wirtz following his match-winning display for Germany.
The former Reds boss shared a warm embrace with the under-pressure playmaker after his goal and assist secured a first international victory for the 59 year old manager.
Klopp made a point of seeking out the 23-year-old, wrapping his arms around the former Bayer Leverkusen man after his pivotal contribution in their 2-0 triumph over Serbia, which got the celebrated tactician's reign in the national team dugout off to a flying start.
Wirtz laid on the opener for Bayern Munich midfielder Tom Bischof on the stroke of half-time, when his darting run into the penalty area ended with a prodded effort cannoning off the post and falling kindly to Bischof, who rifled the ball into the roof of the net.
The Liverpool star created six chances throughout his performance, completing 94 per cent of his passes and doubled the lead on the hour mark. Maximilian Mittelstadt threaded the ball through to Wirtz, whose assured first touch left his marker trailing before he wrong-footed Serbian goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.
The result provides a timely lift for Wirtz, who has endured a difficult spell at Anfield since his high-profile move to the Premier League. The German has thus far struggled to justify his hefty price tag, and despite the summer managerial change that saw Andoni Iraola succeed Arne Slot, Wirtz has not escaped scrutiny.
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Klopp said: "The way we want to play fits Flo Wirtz. I believe that everyone in Liverpool is very happy today. The boy is bursting with joy for the game and has worked his butt off."
Nevertheless, the glimpses of brilliance he showcased in a crucial victory for Germany could prove to be the foundation for success in a Liverpool shirt.
Fans on social media voiced their optimism that Thursday's display will ignite his finest moments on Merseyside to date.
Jurgen Klopp was left delighted by Florian Wirtz after the Liverpool playmaker starred for Germany.
Jurgen Klopp was left delighted by Florian Wirtz after the Liverpool playmaker starred for Germany.(Image: Getty Images)
One posted: "I just fell on my knees. I wish they were in red."
Another commented: "Hope he performs well for us after the break."
A Liverpool fan added: "Hoping this gives him the confidence he needs."
Wirtz's standing in Klopp's plans came as little surprise, with the 23 year old donning the captain's armband following Serge Gnabry's half-time substitution. Reflecting on the victory, he said: "It was incredibly fun. Everyone gave their all on the pitch. We stuck to the game plan and did almost everything right".
"It's something special. It wasn't on my to-do list, but it makes you proud. Nevertheless, I tried to keep pushing and make sure we got the win. We succeeded.
"The players around me made it easy for me. We had a lot of movement. That's when you can really shine."