Liverpool fans told what to expect from Florian Wirtz’s partnership with Bradley Barcola
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Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images Barcola’s running in behind can help spark Wirtz Ahead of Liverpool’s 0-0 draw against Fulham on Saturday, Simpson and former England midfielder Gareth Barry appeared on Stadium Astro to talk about Barcola.Asked what he’s made of him so far, Barry admitted that the Frenchman’s pace is what has really stood out.“I think the obvious one, what we’ve already seen from afar at PSG, his pace stands out from a lot of other players. Just his directness,” he said.“He’s the type of player fans love, as soon as he gets the ball he wants to be direct.
Liverpool hit 15-year low as Fulham draw worsens abysmal 2026 record“He’s getting himself in good positions and I’m sure any forward player goes on confidence, and once they get that first goal, first assist, they get better after that.”Picking up the conversation, Simpson agreed with Barry, claiming that Barcola’s propensity for running beyond the full-back will make him a nightmare to play against, and will open up passing opportunities for Wirtz in particular.“He’d frighten the life out of me as a full-back with his pace!” he laughed. “It’s tough for the full-backs today once he sets off, and when you’ve got players behind, especially Wirtz, who can just thread a through ball, he’ll be dangerous.“I’ve played at Anfield and there’s nothing worse than when those types of players get the crowd going and you feel the pressure, you feel the heat.
Liverpool face Fulham at Anfield Gareth Barry says why Barcola is so different to Cody GakpoGiven Liverpool’s options on the wings last year, it is fair to say that Wirtz has not yet really had the chance to play with players as quick as Barcola, or indeed Victor Munoz who is just as speedy as the former PSG star.That is not to say the likes of Cody Gakpo are not fast, but when asked to explain the difference between someone like Barcola and a player such as Gakpo, who is his direct competitor for a spot on the Liverpool left, Barry said that what the Dutchman lacks in speed, he makes up for with his on-ball ability.“I think Barcola is your more out-and-out traditional winger, Gakpo will come into the pocket, you’ll see him make a lot more different passes,” said the former Man City midfielder.“He’s started the season really well, a couple of assists. Barcola’s probably not going to produce those passes that he’s done.