Alan Shearer has expressed sympathy for Florian Wirtz at Liverpool, suggesting the German playmaker is being hampered by Arne Slot's tactical setup. The 22-year-old arrived from Bayer Leverkusen for £116 million in the summer but has struggled to make an impact, with his only goal contribution being an assist in the Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace.
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'The problem Wirtz has is that his best position is as a no.10, I think. I get the criticism of Wirtz but through no fault of his own, there will always be a microscope on him because of the price-tag.' He added that Liverpool are 'leaving themselves short in midfield to get Wirtz into the team' and wouldn't be surprised if Slot reverts to last season's system.
Liverpool have lost two consecutive matches, including a Champions League defeat to Galatasaray, ahead of Saturday's clash at Chelsea. Shearer refused to label it a 'disaster', noting they remain top of the Premier League, but acknowledged it is 'cause for concern' given the manner of the defeats.
'They haven't played well in the last two games and have lost them both. That would be a concern. Particularly the way they've lost the games,' Shearer said. 'Things have to improve, and Slot has to find the balance pretty quickly.'
