Florian Wirtz believes Liverpool have a ‘small advantage’ over Bournemouth

Florian Wirtz says Liverpool have an advantage over Bournemouth ahead of their Premier League clash at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday.

Liverpool are aiming to record their second Premier League win this season. They have won one and drawn three of their opening four matches.

Wirtz, speaking to Liverpool’s official website, believes that manager Andoni Iraola’s knowledge of Bournemouth gives Liverpool an advantage.

“We have to be very ready,” he said. “I think the manager knows them really well, so maybe there’s a small advantage we have – but we have to be ready and very focused for this game.”

The Reds head into the fixture off the back of a 3-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup third round on Wednesday.

Wirtz watched the match from the stands. He enjoyed his experience, and he is hoping that they can take the momentum into the encounter with Bournemouth.

“Of course, I’d rather be on the pitch,” he added. “But it was the first time I watched it [a game] from higher up in the stadium in the stands.

“It was nice to watch, and it was also a good win for us and for the mind. That definitely helps to build the momentum.”

The German international is expected to return to the matchday squad against Marco Rose’s side and will be looking to make an impact.

Wirtz has endured a slow start to the season, registering just one assist in five league games.

Iraola is still backing the 23-year-old and maintains that he ‘should be judged like everyone else, whether he plays well or doesn’t’.

However, the Spaniard could be forced to drop Wirtz if he continues to struggle.