Robertson Backs Wirtz to Answer Liverpool Critics

Andy Robertson defended Florian Wirtz amid scrutiny of the German's output since his big-money move to Anfield.

Former Liverpool defender Andy Robertson has come to the defense of Florian Wirtz, saying the German playmaker has the mentality to overcome a tough start to life at Anfield.

Wirtz joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for a £100m fee after helping his former club win the Bundesliga and German Cup. His first season produced seven goals in 49 appearances, and he has one assist in six outings this campaign, numbers that have drawn criticism, including from pundit Jamie Carragher after Sunday's 1-0 win over Bournemouth.

Speaking on Stick to Football, Robertson, who left Liverpool for Tottenham Hotspur this summer, said Wirtz created chances that teammates failed to finish, pointing to Mohamed Salah's below-par goal return and injuries to Alexander Isak as context. He noted that Wirtz could easily have finished with more than the 10 assists he recorded in all competitions last season.

"I see a really special footballer, but I know he's got to prove he can do it in the Premier League," Robertson said, adding that the 23-year-old is hungry and wants to be the best.