Florian Wirtz was dealt a double blow in Liverpool's win over Brighton as his goal was chalked off as a Pascal Gross own goal, before the German midfielder twisted his ankle in the second half
Florian Wirtz suffered a double setback during Liverpool's victory over Brighton as his strike was ruled out and credited as a Pascal Gross own goal, before sustaining a knock that forced him off later in the match.
The German midfielder has faced scrutiny over his displays since joining the Reds, but appeared to open the scoring after 17 minutes.
Ronald Araujo released Bradley Barcola down the right flank, whose delivery ricocheted off Gross towards Wirtz. Liverpool's number seven fired the ball home, though it took a significant deflection off his compatriot, leaving goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen helpless.
Wirtz showed promise throughout the contest, but sustained an injury in the second period and required substitution. He appeared in discomfort following a collision with Yasin Ayari just past the hour mark and was withdrawn in favour of youngster Trey Nyoni.
The German international headed immediately for the dressing room after exchanging handshakes with Andoni Iraola, with Sky Sports commentator Vinny O'Connor observing: "Wirtz didn't look comfortable after what looked to be an ankle knock and went straight down the tunnel.", reports the Liverpool Echo.
"It's a shame because there was so much good about his performance and work-rate this afternoon."
Speaking following the victory against Brighton, Iraola provided an update on Wirtz's injury and said: "Unfortunately, he had to leave the pitch with a small twist of the ankle.
"It doesn't look very big, but we are playing every three days, so we need to see where he is."
There were brief worries that Liverpool might need to make another swift substitution, with Wirtz's replacement Nyoni also appearing to limp moments after entering the pitch.
Nevertheless, the youngster recovered from the knock and was able to assist Liverpool in securing the result.
Florian Wirtz picked up an injury in Liverpool's win over Brighton.(Image: (Photo by Paul Currie / AFP via Getty Images))
The victory lifts Liverpool to fourth place, sitting just one point behind the Seagulls, with the Reds now having won four consecutive matches across all competitions.
It marked the Reds' first home league triumph this season following draws against Nottingham Forest and Fulham, while Man City emerged 3-0 victors last weekend.
Iraola's side trail Premier League leaders Manchester City by six points, while Arsenal occupy second place, level with Enzo Maresca's side but behind on goal difference.
