“Hasn’t done it” – Steve Nicol calls for Slot to bench Liverpool player who’s “disappointed” him
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Steve Nicol has suggested that Liverpool manager Arne Slot might need to consider dropping Florian Wirtz from the starting lineup after his underwhelming start in the Premier League for the Reds. Despite the £112 million signing of Wirtz, the German midfielder has yet to provide a goal or an assist in his first four league appearances. Nicol emphasized that Wirtz was brought in specifically to break down tough games but has not delivered on that expectation so far.
Speaking on ESPN, Nicol said that if Wirtz continues to underperform, Slot faces a tough decision about whether to keep him starting or bench him. Nicol even suggested that Slot might try playing Wirtz on the left side as an alternative, but ultimately, there will come a point where the manager must decide if sitting him on the bench is the best option for the team's performance.
Nicol stated: “You have to make tough decisions regardless of whether you paid £112 million for somebody or not, if they’re not producing.” This indicates the pressure on Slot to manage high-profile signings based on merit rather than transfer fees.
Although Liverpool have won their recent games, Nicol argued that Wirtz’s individual impact has been lacking compared to the expectations placed on a player signed for a club-record fee. Slot’s willingness to persist with Wirtz reflects patience, but Nicol implies that sustained lack of contribution may force a lineup change soon.
In summary, Nicol’s analysis reflects the scrutiny on Wirtz’s adaptation at Liverpool under Arne Slot, highlighting the balancing act between investment cost, player performance, and team success early in the new season.
PP