‘Elite’ Liverpool star praised after win over Newcastle United | OneFootball

Liverpool inspired by Florian Wirtz brilliance against Newcastle United

Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Newcastle United on Saturday night felt like one of those evenings when a season gathers momentum and belief spreads through the stands. At the heart of that control sits Florian Wirtz, a player whose influence continues to grow with every outing.

The German playmaker was instrumental in setting up Hugo Ekitike’s equaliser shortly before half time, then took centre stage with a decisive strike in the 67th minute that effectively settled the contest. Liverpool had been pressing for daylight and Wirtz provided it with a moment of elegance that cut through Newcastle United’s resistance.

Florian Wirtz showing elite quality

A neat one two with Mo Salah created the opening, but it was the finish that underlined why Liverpool were prepared to invest more than £100m in the 22 year old. Wirtz guided a precise angled effort past Nick Pope and into the far corner, leaving the Newcastle goalkeeper with no chance. It was the kind of goal that belongs in a highlight reel and it earned instant praise from the TNT Sports booth.

Photo: IMAGO

Lucy Ward captured the mood perfectly when she said via BBC Sport, “Florian Wirtz is elite. He has shown that in the last few games. We have seen it at international level, and Bayer Leverkusen. He has taken time to settle at Liverpool, but that is pure class.” It was a verdict that echoed around Anfield as fans rose to applaud a footballer operating at the peak of his powers.

Liverpool attack gaining rhythm

What makes Wirtz’s rise so compelling is the context. Before Christmas he had not scored for Liverpool, yet now he has six goals in 10 matches. That surge has been built on growing chemistry with Ekitike, who has thrived off Wirtz’s movement between the lines. Together they have combined for six goals since the festive period, a return that has added another layer to Slot’s attacking options.

Liverpool’s front line already boasted Salah’s relentless threat, but Wirtz brings something different, an ability to find space in tight areas and turn half chances into goals. Against Newcastle United he was both creator and finisher, the hallmark of a modern playmaker who can dictate a match.

Newcastle United left chasing shadows

For Newcastle United, the evening was one of frustration. They had worked hard to keep Liverpool at bay, yet Wirtz’s 67th minute strike took the wind out of their sails. From that point on, the Magpies were forced to chase the game, leaving gaps that Liverpool were only too happy to exploit.

Wirtz’s standing ovation when he was withdrawn late on said everything about how his performance was received. He may have taken time to settle, but the wait now feels like a distant memory. With every touch, he justifies the investment and underlines why Liverpool look so formidable as the season unfolds.