Wirtz plays down ankle injury and shrugs off criticism after Brighton win

Wirtz gives positive initial assessment after being withdrawn at Amex

Florian Wirtz moved quickly to ease fears over the ankle injury which forced him off during Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

Florian Wirtz in action for Liverpool against Brighton

The Germany international was substituted in the 65th minute after seemingly jarring his ankle in a challenge. Speaking to the BBC after the game, Wirtz offered a positive initial assessment of the problem.

“I think it should be alright, it's not too bad, but I don't know much yet, we still have to check it, but I think it's not going to take long,” he said.

Responding to criticism of his Liverpool form

The 23-year-old also addressed the fierce criticism of his performances, which has particularly come from Jamie Carragher, after finding some form for Liverpool in recent weeks.

"Maybe I'm just an interesting guy, you know?" Wirtz told the BBC with a smile. “No, I just play my football, and if people want to talk about me or judge me, that's their job. I am not focusing on that. I just want to play football, and more, I cannot do," he continued.

Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images