Florian Wirtz Injury Blow: Carragher's Comments Moments Before Liverpool Setback

Liverpool FC suffered a major injury blow just minutes before their Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, with star signing Florian Wirtz forced to withdraw from the starting lineup.[1][2][3]

The German international, who joined Liverpool in a high-profile summer transfer, was initially named in Arne Slot's starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation. However, Wirtz picked up an injury during the pre-match warm-up, leading to a last-minute change. Curtis Jones stepped in to replace him, slotting into the attacking midfield role alongside Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo.[1][2][4]

Liverpool's confirmed lineup read: Alisson; Kerkez, Konaté, Van Dijk, Szoboszlai; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jones, Gakpo; Ekitiké. Substitutes included Gomez, Robertson, and others.[1][2] The matchday blog confirmed the adjustment, noting Wirtz's conversations with coaching staff on the pitch before his exit.[1]

The timing couldn't be worse for Wirtz, who had finally hit top form after a slow start. Despite no goals or assists in his first 15 Premier League appearances, the 22-year-old contributed to six goals in his last 10 league outings, silencing early critics.[2] Moments before the injury news broke, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher had publicly stated that Wirtz "needs to improve" his consistency and decision-making, adding irony to the setback.[web:0] (Note: Original article link inaccessible; synthesized from related reports.)

No immediate update on the injury's severity was available due to the rapid withdrawal, but Liverpool have a week off before hosting West Ham United on February 28, followed by fixtures against Wolves and a Champions League last-16 tie.[2] Fans hope the break allows Wirtz to recover quickly, as his form has been pivotal to Liverpool's title push.

This incident underscores the fine margins in top-flight football, with Jones' early error in possession highlighting the challenge of replacing such a creative talent.[2]

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