Dominik Szoboszlai has become one of Liverpool’s most important players, but should Andoni Iraola automatically put him straight back into the starting line-up when he finally returns from injury?
It is a question worth asking, particularly with Liverpool beginning to find some momentum and several players making a strong case for keeping their places.
There is no doubt about Szoboszlai’s quality. His energy, work rate, pressing, ability to carry the ball and willingness to drive Liverpool forward make him a hugely valuable member of this squad. When he is fully fit and playing well, he is difficult to leave out.
However, football is about more than reputations. Nobody should be guaranteed a starting place simply because they are an established name.
Liverpool Need to Be Careful With Szoboszlai
The biggest concern is making sure the Hungarian is completely over his hamstring problem.
Szoboszlai initially returned against Brentford but lasted only 32 minutes before being forced off again. That is exactly the sort of setback Liverpool need to avoid repeating.
Iraola has already shown that he is prepared to manage his squad carefully, particularly with the number of games Liverpool have been playing. There is little point rushing Szoboszlai back for one important fixture only to lose him again for several weeks.
The manager confirmed ahead of the Arsenal game that Szoboszlai had a chance of being available, although he could not guarantee his involvement. That suggests Liverpool are taking things one step at a time.
Who Makes Way for Him?
This is where things get interesting.
Florian Wirtz has been showing signs of finding his feet, while Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch have been sharing the midfield responsibilities. Trey Nyoni has also given Iraola something to think about with his performances.
Liverpool have won five consecutive matches in all competitions, although only two of those victories have come in the Premier League. The team is beginning to build confidence, and players who have contributed to that run deserve to be considered.
Szoboszlai offers something different. His engine and intensity can transform Liverpool’s midfield, and his ability to cover ground is particularly important in Iraola’s high-energy approach.
But if the existing midfield combination is working, should the manager really change it immediately?
I would rather see Szoboszlai introduced gradually than throw him straight into the starting XI before he is ready.
Szoboszlai Is Too Important to Keep Out for Long
Let’s be clear: I am not suggesting that Szoboszlai should become a regular substitute.
He is one of Liverpool’s most influential players and, when fully fit, I would expect him to be pushing for a starting place every week.
His versatility is another major advantage. He can operate in central midfield, play further forward and even provide an option at right-back when required. That gives Iraola plenty of tactical flexibility.
However, Liverpool must also reward good performances. If Nyoni, Gravenberch, Mac Allister and Wirtz are doing their jobs, nobody should be dropped automatically.
Competition for places is healthy, especially at a club with Liverpool’s ambitions.
My Verdict: Bring Him Back Gradually
I want to see Szoboszlai back in the team as soon as he is genuinely ready, but I would not rush him into the starting line-up.
Give him some minutes from the bench, build up his match fitness and allow him to regain his confidence without putting unnecessary pressure on that hamstring.
Once he is fully fit, he will have every opportunity to reclaim his place. His quality is obvious, and Liverpool are a better team with a fully firing Szoboszlai available.
But Iraola has to make decisions based on performances, fitness and balance – not reputation.
Szoboszlai should be one of the first names on the teamsheet when he is fit and firing. But should he walk straight back into the starting XI? Not necessarily.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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