Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler is backing Florian Wirtz to deliver the vital spark the Reds need to fend off rivals in their quest to defend the Premier League title. Fowler, regarded as one of Liverpool’s greatest players, is set to join Stan Sport and Nine for the highly anticipated match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United on Saturday night.
Liverpool faced a tumultuous summer marked by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and a penalty shootout loss to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield. Despite these setbacks, Fowler believes the club is still a serious contender, with the bookmakers slightly favouring them over Arsenal and Manchester City for the title.
The Reds have shown determination to strengthen their squad, investing over $535 million in new talent, and they are eyeing further acquisitions, including Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. Fowler, who scored 163 goals in the Premier League, sees Liverpool as arguably stronger this season, praising their recent signings for elevating the team’s calibre.
Wirtz, who joins Liverpool for a hefty fee of $241.5 million from Bayer Leverkusen, is viewed as a promising addition expected to bolster Liverpool’s attacking prowess. At just 22, he has already made a significant impact for Germany and is anticipated to thrive among Liverpool’s talented roster. Fowler highlighted that Wirtz has the technical ability to dismantle defences, reiterating that with support from key players like Mohamed Salah, Wirtz will find his footing quickly in the Premier League.
As Fowler scrutinises this season’s competition, he acknowledges that Manchester City and Arsenal are likely to be formidable challengers, particularly with Pep Guardiola’s side aiming to bounce back after a disappointing showing last season. Fowler also pointed out Chelsea’s impressive recruitment as they look to compete fiercely this term.
In addition, Fowler tipped Aston Villa to defeat Newcastle in their upcoming clash, noting Villa’s strong pre-season and improved squad depth. Having enjoyed his time in Australia through playing and managing, Fowler expressed his enthusiasm for covering Premier League matches for Stan Sport, highlighting the league’s unrivalled excitement and competitive nature.
In summation, as Liverpool gears up for the new season, Fowler’s insights reflect a blend of optimism for the team’s potential and a pointed awareness of the challenges from their rivals. With new signings like Wirtz, the Reds are poised to embark on a thrilling title defence in a Premier League renowned for its unpredictability and allure.