Liverpool star Florian Wirtz has branded his international break with Germany as a success despite being booed in the victory over Northern Ireland. The playmaker was given the chance to link up with his national team-mates following intense scrutiny since his Premier League switch. Wirtz has failed to find the net or provide an assist for Liverpool since the Community Shield, sparking fierce debate over his displays and position within the squad.
Jamie Carragher and Wayne Rooney have previously dissected his performances, with the former Liverpool defender suggesting the Germany international should be relegated to the substitutes’ bench. Despite occasional glimpses of brilliance and hints at why the Reds splashed £116million on his signature during the summer, Wirtz showed promise during his cameo against Chelsea, though his ingenuity went unrewarded as Arne Slot’s men endured a third consecutive loss. Liverpool fans will be hoping the shift in environment has helped the champions during their current difficulties.
Wirtz played the full 90 minutes in both of Germany’s recent World Cup qualifiers. They secured maximum points following victories over Luxembourg and Northern Ireland.
With a berth in next summer’s World Cup within touching distance, Wirtz posted on social media following a productive camp, declaring: “Successful international break.”
That is despite him being booed by Northern Irish fans after throwing himself to the floor in an attempt to win a penalty. After the referee waved play on, his every touch was jeered by the home supporters.
Wirtz is set to return to Merseyside as Liverpool gear up for their clash against Manchester United on Sunday, amidst a storm of controversy surrounding his performance.
Premier League pundits have been divided over Wirtz’s struggles, but back in Germany, football legends and national heroes have rallied behind the former Bayer Leverkusen player.
Julian Nagelsmann, the head coach of the national team, has staunchly defended his player during the break.
“Even though he hasn’t scored any goals, he is still the player who creates the most chances in the Premier League,” he declared to Sport 1.
“It’s not his fault if his team-mates don’t convert them, and the statistics don’t even tell the whole story.
“Wirtz needs to get used to the league. I saw him playing with total freedom. He knows what he’s capable of and how things work.
“He hasn’t always had it easy – he’ll have to work hard now too.”