Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz says No 10 is his “best position” and has revealed he has spoken to Andoni Iraola about his role in the new head coach’s plans for the season.
Wirtz has started both of his two pre-season appearances in his favoured No 10 role, having played in a number of different positions last season as he adjusted to English football and former head coach Arne Slot searched for solutions to Liverpool’s poor form.
“Of course we spoke about this,” Wirtz told reporters following Liverpool’s 3-2 friendly defeat to Monaco on Monday. “I think it is important to know which position you are going to play.
“I know that I can probably play different positions but No 10 is my favourite and maybe my best position, so let’s see how this works out.”
Wirtz has scored a goal in each game so far, and his connection with striker Alexander Isak is continuing to grow.
Liverpool invested over £225million in the two players last summer but both endured a difficult maiden campaign on Merseyside. The signs heading into this season are more positive, however.
“I think today and also last game against Leeds, we had some good combinations,” Wirtz added. “We created some chances together. He is a very, very good player and I enjoy playing with him. We have to work on the connection but we are still in pre-season and I think until now it is working well.”
Wirtz arrived for a fee that could rise to £116million from Bayer Leverkusen but failed to meet high expectations consistently last term.
Heading into his second season in the Premier League, he believes he has learnt a lot and is more prepared this time around.
“Of course there were some games when I wasn’t happy with myself, but also a lot of games when I felt good on the pitch,” he said. “Last season was difficult for the whole club but hopefully we have the right energy and mentality for this season, so every player can shine more.
“I’ve played one year in England now. I’ve said often enough that it’s a different style of football than in Germany. I got used to the games and to the opponents. I just know how it is now. I’m happy to have my next season.”
