Credit: Imago and BBC's Match of the Day

Jack Dawson

Sun 28 December 2025 11:00, UK Updated Sun 28 December 2025 11:40, UK

Liverpool picked up an expected 2-1 win over Wolves on Saturday as Arne Slot looks to get their season back on track.

Despite Wolves’ terrible position in the Premier League, the game ended on a nervy note, with the Reds looking to defend their lead.

While they did manage to see it out, fans continue to call for Slot to be sacked at Anfield after what has been an uninspiring start to date.

Nevertheless, there were plenty of positives from the game, including Florian Wirtz, who netted his first Premier League goal against the Old Gold side.

As a result, Wayne Rooney was quick to praise the German international for his performance.

Wayne Rooney: We are starting to see the best of Florian Wirtz

Wirtz has often been criticised for his performances at Liverpool this season.

Despite his big-money move in the summer, it has taken time for the attacking midfielder to hit form in England.

While Liverpool’s struggles in the Premier League earlier this season likely did not help the situation, the Anfield faithful are now starting to see the best of their star signing.

Against Tottenham, Wirtz was excellent, and the 22-year-old continued this momentum into the match against Wolves.

• Wirtz joined Liverpool in the summer
• The attacking midfielder initially struggled to perform at Anfield
• However, he has since found form in recent matches

Reviewing the game after, Rooney was quick to praise Wirtz on BBC’s Match of the Day on 27 December.

When asked if we are now starting to see the best of Wirtz, the former Man United star said: “Yeah, I think we are. He has had some really good performances this season, but he just hasn’t got the goals to go with them.

“He was really impressive today. He was taking up some great positions, going wide, coming into the middle of the pitch, and he is starting to get a real good understanding with Kerkez.

“Some of the positions he was picking up were causing Wolves problems all game.

“We see here, in behind Wolves’ midfield, and then Ekitike with a great run, it is a wonderful pass, and Ekitike is unlucky with his finish.

“He is showing glimpses of being a top, top player, which he can be for Liverpool.

“Again, here with Kerkez, that is brilliant from Ekitike, and then Wirtz pulling off the shoulder, and it is a wonderful pass from Ekitike and a good finish.

“We see here (Wirtz) is willing to run back and put the work in for his teammates, defending his penalty box and going out wide, blocking crosses.

“Again, here with Kerkez, the understanding they are getting is really good, some great skill in the penalty box, and they are unlucky not to get a third goal.

“I thought he was excellent today.”

How good was Wirtz against Wolves?

According to Fotmob on 28 December, Wirtz had an excellent game against Wolves.

On top of his goal, the attacking midfielder completed the most dribbles, created the most chances and won the most duels.

It was a terrific display, and one that showcased how much of an asset he could be going forward for the Reds.

Now, the challenge for Wirtz is to ensure he can do this on a more consistent level and against better opponents.

With Leeds United up next on New Year’s Day, it is the perfect chance for the Liverpool star to continue his fine form.