Wirtz shows the attitude and aptitude needed

NOT LIFT-OFF BUT DEFINETLY SIGNS OF REASON REDS PAID SO MUCH AS GERMAN COMES TO SLOT'S RESCUE

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Wirtz numbers do not tell full Liverpool story as Arne Slot relieved It would be pushing matters to suggest this represents liftoff for Florian Wirtz at Liverpool. But in a week when the scrutiny has been intense on the faltering Premier League champions, the Germany international is now demonstrating signs of why the Reds have invested so much in him spearheading the future.

Following a man-of-the-match display in Sunday's win at West Ham United, here Wirtz dragged Liverpool by the scruff of the neck to avoid what would have been a third successive damaging home defeat.

Sure, there was a touch of luck as his 81st-minute shot deflected in off the heel of Nordi Mukiele to equalise a similarly fortunate opener from Chemsdine Talbi midway through the second half.

Wirtz, though, had merited that rub of the green for the clever feet that saw him dance beyond two defenders when accepting a pass inside the penalty area from substitute Curtis Jones.