Why Liverpool stumble without Florian Wirtz — Jermaine Pennant explains

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Jermaine Pennant has highlighted just how important Florian Wirtz has become to Liverpool this season, especially when it comes to linking play between the lines.Wirtz faced plenty of criticism early on after his move to England, mainly because he wasn’t contributing with goals or assists right away.But over time, he’s settled in and become a key part of the side. And according to Pennant, Liverpool don’t look like themselves at all when Wirtz isn’t playing.Florian Wirtz’s impact on LiverpoolPhoto by Ryan Pierse/Getty ImagesJermaine Jenas asked the former Liverpool winger: “You get the job at Liverpool, Arne Slot has been sacked.

What’s the first thing that you do? Who would you be building the team around?”Pennant replied by picking out Wirtz and explaining how crucial he is for connecting midfield to attack.He said: “I think probably Florian Wirtz.

I think we see when he’s not playing how Liverpool literally just look dead. He’s just good on the ball.”Wirtz’s influence on Liverpool supported by the statsAfter a quiet start, the 22-year-old has now contributed six goals and eight assists across all competitions.Since their arrivals last summer, Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike have developed a strong partnership, with the pair combining for six goals so far this season – more than any other duo in the squad.It’s the most by any duo in a single campaign when both players are aged 23 or under, matching the record set by Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen back in 2002/03.