‘Do better’ – Gary Neville sends firm message to Liverpool midfielder

Liverpool and Manchester City are yet to find the breakthrough at Anfield as a competitive first half ended 0-0.

The Reds came into the game with notable absentees as Dom Szoboszlai, Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak missed out, among others.

And in recent weeks, a lot has been said about Florian Wirtz, who continues to blow hot and cold at Liverpool.

For many, however, his first international break under Jurgen Klopp was a success as he scored and captained his country.

But now, Gary Neville feels he needs to be the glue of the team after a subpar performance in the first half.

Gary Neville criticises Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz

Starting in the No.10 role, Wirtz was expected to provide the inspiration for Liverpool after a string of strong displays for Germany.

However, he was once again not at his best as he gave the ball away a handful of times.

1 – Liverpool's Florian Wirtz is the only player to rank in the top 10 in the Premier League this season for each of:

High-intensity pressures in opp half (181 – =7th)
Runs ahead of the ball (34 – =1st)
Defensive line-breaking passes (16 – 8th)

Perceptions. pic.twitter.com/KGXJpF7w38

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 22, 2026

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“Florian Wirtz has got to do better,” said Neville on Sky via the BBC.

“I know we’ve said that a lot over the past few weeks. He should be the connection, the glue, that links Liverpool’s midfield and attack.”

He wasn’t terrible, but Liverpool need the 22-year-old to come to the fore to unlock games like this.