Jeremie Frimpong has backed Florian Wirtz to overcome his slow start and establish himself as a key player for Liverpool.
Wirtz has not lived up to expectations since his £116 million move from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, particularly in the Premier League.
He has chipped in with just four goals and four assists in 28 top-flight appearances. Having played alongside Wirtz in Leverkusen, Frimpong is confident he will rediscover his best form at Liverpool.
He told the Guardian: “I can only say this, if it wasn’t for Flo, we wouldn’t have won the Bundesliga [undefeated] or the cup [in 2024].
“I know what he can do. He knows what he can do. It’s just for you guys to wait and see.
“Look, he’s just so good on the ball, so comfortable. He hasn’t got my speed, but he is fast because of how his mind works. I’ve seen it. I know it’s there, and I’ve seen him do it at the highest level.
“At Leverkusen, it was like this – when we needed a goal, he was there. When we needed something to happen, when we needed to win, he was there. He makes it happen.”
Wirtz’s debut campaign in England has not been totally disappointing. He has created 50 chances from open play, a tally only bettered by Bruno Fernandes.
His best performances have come in the Champions League, placing second for key passes per game and fourth for big chances created.
Wirtz’s struggles in the English top flight have been attributed to difficulties adapting to its fast and physical nature, in contrast to the Champions League.
The German international’s performances could improve next season if he fully adapts to the league’s demands.
Stats from transfermarkt.com & opta.
