Journalist Urges Liverpool to Consider Sensational Midfield Ace as Left-Wing Option | OneFootball

Arne Slot Faces Intriguing Florian Wirtz Question at Liverpool

Liverpool’s perfect start under Arne Slot has sparked plenty of debate around team selection and tactical choices. Four wins from four in the Premier League and a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League have underlined the side’s quality and momentum. Now comes the first Merseyside Derby of the season at Anfield, with Slot’s men looking to stay top of the table against Everton.

This week, David Lynch spoke to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, providing insight into how Slot might deploy Florian Wirtz. The discussion raised an intriguing question: could Wirtz be used on the left rather than in his usual central role?

Slot’s first choices in midfield

Lynch reflected on the early decisions made by the Liverpool manager, suggesting that Wirtz has largely been viewed as a number ten.

“I thought after his first few games that Slot was adamant that he was his number ten and I thought we might never see him off the left.”

Slot’s preference for building his midfield around Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai has been clear. The balance between control, creativity and pressing intensity has been crucial to Liverpool’s strong start, and Wirtz has often been the attacking pivot at the centre of it.

Why the left could suit Wirtz

Lynch explained that while central areas appear to be Wirtz’s natural home, he has the ability to operate effectively from the left flank when required.

“He’s comfortable out there and I think in certain games it’s what Liverpool should do and it would be a smart move.”

“Arsenal away is a good example of the sort of game that I would use Wirtz out on the left and keep Mac Allister, Gravenberch and Szoboszlai in the middle.”

These comments highlight the versatility that could be important as Liverpool face tougher challenges in both domestic and European competition. Slot has shown flexibility in his systems, and Wirtz’s adaptability could be an extra tool at his disposal.

Selection questions for the Derby

The conversation also touched on the upcoming clash with Everton, with Cody Gakpo’s recent form opening the door for discussion.

“Maybe it’s something for him to think about for this game [against Everton] because Gakpo is fantastic but his form hasn’t been great in the last couple of games.”

“Wirtz is definitely an interesting option there and he can definitely play out there. He’s quick and can dribble at players but I’m not sure that we will see it at the weekend.”

Liverpool will be expected to dominate possession at Anfield, and Slot may well keep faith with his established setup. Even so, Wirtz remains a card up the sleeve, capable of giving Everton a different kind of problem if called upon.

Long-term value of versatility

What emerges from Lynch’s analysis is that Wirtz offers Liverpool genuine variety. In games where midfield stability must be prioritised, his ability to move wide and stretch opponents could prove decisive. Slot’s trust in his players to operate across multiple roles is part of why his Liverpool side already look so complete.

As the season develops, these options could be the difference between maintaining momentum in multiple competitions and falling short. With the squad in strong form and the manager open to tactical nuance, Liverpool supporters have plenty of reasons to be optimistic about what lies ahead.