Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has offered advice to Florian Wirtz after the £116 million summer signing’s sluggish start at Anfield. The German playmaker is yet to score or assist in the Premier League and the Champions League, but Dalglish believes building chemistry with Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike could unlock his potential in Arne Slot’s system.

Wirtz struggling for form after Liverpool move

Wirtz joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen in a club-record transfer but has struggled to find rhythm in his early weeks in England. Despite showing flashes of his Bundesliga brilliance, he remains without a goal or assist after eight appearances in major competitions. His inability to connect consistently with Isak and Ekitike has been highlighted as a major reason behind his quiet start.

AdvertisementGetty Images EntertainmentDalglish explain how to get the best out of Wirtz

Dalglish urged patience while emphasising the need for understanding between Liverpool’s new-look attack. “The first thing he needs to do is what he's doing at the moment. He's great at taking the ball into the feet, he'll open himself up and the pass has beat you but he's still got control of it,” he told the Stick To Football podcast. “Once he gets on the same wavelength with the others… by the way, that wee fella, he could open a can of soup. For me and Rushy, it was training where we learned. I told him, ‘If there’s a space, just leave it, I’ll play it and you go for it.’ Simple.”

AFPWirtz comes in for criticism from Carragher

Wirtz’s struggles have come amid Liverpool’s recent dip in form, with back-to-back defeats in the Champions League and Premier League raising concerns. Jamie Carragher also criticised the midfielder after the loss to Galatasaray, calling for more end product. Slot’s side, however, remain two points clear at the top, suggesting there’s time for Wirtz to adapt.

Wirtz and Liverpool up against struggling Chelsea

Liverpool face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this weekend in a key test of their title credentials. Wirtz will be hoping to open his account and silence critics by delivering a standout performance. With Dalglish’s advice in mind, building attacking chemistry could be crucial to turning his promising touches into decisive contributions.