'I know him' - Andoni Iraola says Liverpool player is really misunderstood

Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz continues to be one of the most talked-about footballers on the planet.

The German hasn’t set the world alight with his performances at Anfield, but every move of his is scrutinised by the media, which hasn’t helped his cause in the slightest.

And after an underwhelming start to the new season, Wirtz seems to have come into his own over the past three games, scoring once and recording two assists.

Ahead of the Premier League clash against Brighton, Iraola has gone on a passionate rant on the 23-year-old, adding that he is misunderstood due to his introverted personality.

Andoni Iraola defends Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz

“I’m delighted with Florian,” said Iraola in his pre-match press conference.

“His performances over the last three matches have been very good, and I hope this is the beginning of him finding his confidence again. We believe in him a great deal.

“People tend to judge him in terms of goals and assists. That isn’t going to be his greatest strength. He’s not a number 10 or a second striker who’s going to score 15 goals this season.

“If he can help us with goals, that’s even better. But he gives us a great deal of control over matches.

“He’s probably felt more comfortable in Champions League matches. In the Premier League, he still needs to get used to the duels. It’s true that he’s already been here for a year, but he’s still adapting.

“In terms of his talent, I have absolutely no doubts. And I have no doubts about his attitude either. He’s a player who works incredibly hard.

“His body language can seem a little cold. People might think he’s not involved or doesn’t care, when in reality, now that I know him better, I can see how much he loves football and how much he cares.

“He is involved and committed, but he doesn’t communicate that externally in the same way as some other players. I think that can work against Florian a little.”

Classy as ever from the boss. His man management has been top class since arriving at Anfield and Wirtz will take a great deal of encouragement from his comments.