Newcastle United Player Admits he was Impressed by this Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Tactical Flexibility Highlights Dominik Szoboszlai’s Value

Dan Burn has openly acknowledged that Newcastle United identified Dominik Szoboszlai as Liverpool’s potential weakness during their 3-2 defeat at St. James’ Park. Eddie Howe’s players looked to exploit Szoboszlai operating at right back, a role unfamiliar to the Hungarian midfielder.

“100%,” Burn replied when asked if the Liverpool No. 8 playing out of position was discussed amongst him and his teammates (Premier League Productions via The Boot Room). “It’s not his usual position, it’s something you have to look at as a weakness to attack, but he’s done really well in that position.”

Despite Newcastle’s focus, Szoboszlai stood firm. He defended with resilience, carried the ball effectively and showed the sort of adaptability that Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been keen to encourage in his squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Right Back Role Brings New Dimension

Liverpool have been short of options at right back with Jeremie Frimpong sidelined and Conor Bradley still not at full fitness. Slot turned to Szoboszlai, trusting his energy, tactical discipline and capacity to cover ground.

The Hungarian’s versatility was on display not only in the Newcastle clash but also days later against Arsenal, where he struck a sublime free-kick past David Raya to secure three points at Anfield. His ability to perform outside of his natural role underlines his growing influence on the team.

“It’s always seemed to be that for Liverpool, whether it’s Trent drifting into midfield, he had that long ball he could play, that has really benefitted them,” Burn added, highlighting the continuity in Liverpool’s use of full backs as playmakers.

Slot’s Early Reign and Liverpool’s Momentum

Liverpool sit top of the Premier League table after three successive victories over Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Arsenal. Slot, in his first season at Anfield, has already delivered silverware by winning the 2024/25 title and appears determined to build on that success.

The tactical switch with Szoboszlai at right back is emblematic of a broader theme under Slot: adaptability. Rather than relying solely on his players in fixed roles, he is encouraging them to develop in multiple positions, making Liverpool harder to prepare for and harder to contain.

What Comes Next for Szoboszlai

Following the international break, both Frimpong and Bradley are expected to return, which should allow Szoboszlai to move back into midfield. However, his assured performances in defence provide Slot with another reliable option when required.

His two consecutive man of the match awards reflect both his quality and his importance to Liverpool’s current form. While Newcastle United attempted to expose him, Szoboszlai instead reinforced his reputation as one of Liverpool’s most complete footballers.