'I don't see where he gets into the team'
- Published
Former Premier League striker Wayne Rooney says Liverpool summer signing Florian Wirtz "damages the balance" of Arne Slot's side.
The 22 year-old is still searching for his first goal for the Reds and is yet to directly contribute to a goal since his assist in the Community Shield.
"It's been tough for him. I don't think there's any denying that," Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show.
"He's played OK. When you sign so many players like Liverpool have - Liverpool don't normally do this but they've signed basically a whole new frontline, and then you've got [Mohamed] Salah there as well - they're all competing and they all want to do well. Wirtz is probably the one who's not doing as well, but he's got so much ability.
"I don't see where he gets into the team. I think it was a lot of money. I think Wirtz actually damages the balance of Liverpool and how they play. He's a top player and I'm sure he will get better - but he's had a slow start and I think there's no denying that.
"I've seen players come into this league and it takes time. It's not the price tag. It's not the player or his ability. I don't see where he fits into what Liverpool do in that system.
"Is he a third midfield player? For me, no, he's more of an attacking player. So if I have to choose between him and Szoboszlai, then I choose Szoboszlai."
