Wirtz finally scores as frail Reds labour against Wolves

The wait lasted 190 days. More than six months after signing, approaching halftime in his 23rd appearance, with the 27th shot he attempted as a Liverpool player, Florian Wirtz scored.

- RICHARD JOLLY

It is safe to say they did not expect the £100m buy to open his account in the bitter Christmas cold but his drought explained the reaction at Anfield. “I am quite sure it was a relief for him,” said Arne Slot.

There was further relief when the final whistle went as Liverpool laboured to victory against bottom-of-the-table Wolves; it transpired that Wirtz delivered the decider whereas, when he scored, a rout felt feasible. There was a significance for the side and for the statement signing who, with his slow start to life at Anfield, became a symbolic figure in unwanted ways.

But flawed as this victory was, it was secured by summer signings, with Wirtz’s goal accompanied by assists for two more of the class of 2025. It is far from enough to render Liverpool’s £450m spending spree a success but it signified a step in the right direction for the newcomers.

And for Wirtz, in particular. There were delectable touches against Wolves, moments of deft footwork, chances created by artistry; evidence that Liverpool will not come to rue their investment.