Liverpool supporters have been urged to remain patient with Florian Wirtz after a challenging debut season at Anfield, but former Reds striker Emile Heskey has delivered a stark assessment of what the record signing truly needs to thrive.
The German playmaker arrived last summer in a deal that could reach £116 million, shattering the club’s previous transfer record. However, his first campaign in English football has been far from straightforward. Despite recording seven goals and 10 assists in 49 appearances, Wirtz has often appeared stifled, frequently overshadowed by Dominik Szoboszlai and struggling to replicate the sparkling form that made him a standout at Bayer Leverkusen.
Heskey, who enjoyed a successful career at Liverpool playing alongside luminaries like Steven Gerrard and Steve McManaman, believes the issue runs deeper than individual adaptation.
“I’d like to think he’ll come good. He’s just found it very difficult so far,” Heskey told betting site Hajper. “I think Liverpool need to look at a change in their style of play to bring back a sense of energy and high intensity to get running at teams again.”
The former England international’s comments align with broader concerns about Liverpool’s current approach under Arne Slot. While the team secured silverware previously through controlled possession, there has been a noticeable drop in intensity and distance covered, even against mid-table sides. Heskey argues this tactical shift has particularly hampered Wirtz’s ability to exploit spaces.
A Coutinho-esque talent waiting to explode
Heskey drew an intriguing comparison between Wirtz and one of Liverpool’s former creative forces.
“Wirtz is a very intricate player,” he continued. “He reminds me of Philippe Coutinho at times. He picks up those little pockets of space like Coutinho used to. He just doesn’t seem to have that real power or energy at the minute to drive them on, but he picks up some sensational positions, gets the ball and turns.”
The Liverpool legend is optimistic that Wirtz can still deliver on his enormous price tag, potentially even breaking records for assists in a single Premier League season.
“Could Florian Wirtz go on to break the record for assists in a single season? You would like to think so. That’s why they spent all that money on him.”
The jaw-dropping solution: Elliot Anderson
While many fans point to attacking reinforcements or defensive stability, Heskey has singled out one player as the key to unlocking Wirtz — Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.
The energetic, box-to-box midfielder has impressed this season with his mobility, technical quality, and relentless work rate. Heskey believes Anderson represents exactly the type of dynamic presence Liverpool’s midfield currently lacks.
“I’ve said it before, but Liverpool should be going after Elliot Anderson. I like him. He’s very mobile. He’s very energetic. He’s great on the ball too.”
Heskey highlighted the decline in physicality from current midfielders, particularly noting Alexis Mac Allister’s reduced dynamism, while praising Szoboszlai’s consistency. He suggested Liverpool require “heavy surgery” in central areas, with Anderson as a prime target, alongside alternatives like Carlos Baleba or Adam Wharton.
“Liverpool need someone who can get around midfield… The others just don’t seem like they can do it anymore so I think Liverpool need some heavy surgery in midfield.”
A pivotal summer ahead
With Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson confirmed to depart, and further exits possible, Liverpool face a major squad rebuild. Heskey’s message is clear: without the right supporting cast and a return to high-intensity football, even a talent as gifted as Wirtz risks being wasted.
For now, the former striker advises patience.
“It’s the next little bit, and more understanding with the players around him, that he needs. Let’s give him next season and see how he goes. Hopefully, we’ll see the best of him with a new team around him as well.”
As the transfer window looms, Liverpool’s ability to address these midfield deficiencies could define not only Wirtz’s future at the club but the trajectory of the post-Salah era. Heskey’s blunt verdict serves as both a warning and a roadmap — the £116m man is ready, but he cannot do it alone.