David Lynch: Why Liverpool’s Szoboszlai Criticism is Unfair and Overblown | OneFootball

Dominik Szoboszlai: Liverpool’s Unsung Midfield Hero Amidst Criticism

In the latest episode of Media Matters from Anfield Index, David Lynch sat down with Dave Davis to unpack Liverpool’s ongoing Premier League campaign. One topic that sparked attention was the recent fan criticism aimed at Liverpool’s midfield powerhouse, Dominik Szoboszlai. As Liverpool sit top of the Premier League table, some fans have voiced concerns about Szoboszlai’s performances, but Lynch was quick to jump to the Hungarian’s defense.

Szoboszlai’s Contributions Often Overlooked by Fans

During the conversation, Lynch highlighted how Szoboszlai’s performances have been wrongly overshadowed by moments of sloppiness on the ball. He stated, “He’s had a few games where he’s been a bit sloppy, but it’s decision-making. It’s not a lack of quality.” Lynch emphasised that Szoboszlai’s occasional missteps do not reflect his overall contribution to Liverpool’s success this season.

Lynch continued to break down how Szoboszlai’s work rate is often overlooked. “The workload he’s getting through is ridiculous. He’s playing a role that’s similar to what Fabinho did in previous seasons, acting as the extra man in both attack and defense,” Lynch explained. Szoboszlai’s ability to seamlessly shift from attack to defense makes him a crucial component of Liverpool’s midfield.

Photo: IMAGO

Sloppiness in Possession but Unlucky on Key Miss

One key area of criticism has been Szoboszlai’s sloppiness in possession, especially during Liverpool’s recent matches. Lynch acknowledged this flaw but also pointed out how it’s part of a larger learning curve. “He just needs to tighten up in possession a bit,” Lynch commented. “But the quality is there. He’s still adapting, and some of the passes he pulls off show what he’s capable of.”

Lynch went on to discuss a moment from Liverpool’s match against Wolves, where Szoboszlai missed a close-range chance that some fans deemed unforgivable. Defending the midfielder, Lynch noted, “That miss was so unlucky. The ball hit the keeper in a way that nobody could have anticipated. It wasn’t a case of poor finishing, just unfortunate timing.”

Szoboszlai’s Role in Liverpool’s Defensive Success

While fans may focus on Szoboszlai’s errors, Lynch argued that his defensive contributions are what truly set him apart. “He’s not just an attacking midfielder,” Lynch pointed out. “Szoboszlai gets back, covers ground and helps ensure Liverpool maintain defensive stability.” This dual responsibility of contributing to both attack and defense is no easy feat, and Szoboszlai has embraced it with a high level of commitment.

According to Lynch, Szoboszlai’s pressing and ability to win back possession have been key to Liverpool’s improved defensive record this season. “You can see it in the numbers. Liverpool’s expected goals against is significantly better, and Szoboszlai is a big part of that,” Lynch stated. “He’s covering a lot of ground to slow the opposition down, making it harder for them to break through.”

Szoboszlai is Key to Liverpool’s Midfield Future

Lynch closed his defense of Szoboszlai by asserting that the Hungarian international is not just a player for now, but for Liverpool’s future. “Szoboszlai’s not going anywhere. He’s a key part of what Slot wants to build. Fans need to understand that the sloppiness will fade, but his work rate and quality on the ball will only get better.”

This endorsement from David Lynch serves as a reminder that while Szoboszlai may still have room for improvement, his contributions to Liverpool’s midfield should not be underestimated. With more time to adapt to the Premier League and Slot’s system, Szoboszlai is poised to become one of Liverpool’s most important players.