Wirtz admits he needs to “feed” world record signing more

“First of all, I knew that Joey would throw the ball over me,” he said. “Then a good pass from Macca, and I had to take the risk to just hit it on target. I hit it quite well so I’m happy about that. Sometimes you can feel it that it’s a good strike.”

That Kop-end goal was more than a flourish. It was a statement of control, a reminder that Liverpool possess the cutting edge required in tight contests. The timing of the strike, arriving just as Palace sensed an opening after pulling a goal back, underlined its importance.

Isak partnership growing influence

Much of Liverpool’s attacking promise revolved around the link-up between Wirtz and Isak. The striker, returning from injury, found the net and offered a focal point that had been missing in recent weeks.

“Especially as a striker it’s always important to score goals so I’m happy for him,” Wirtz said. “I hope it’s the start of many and he can keep going like this.”

Wirtz was clear about the dynamic required to unlock Isak’s potential. Service is everything.

“I think it’s also important for him that we feed him with balls because if he’s just there on top alone, then it’s hard for him to score goals. He needs the balls to score them and as you could see today, if he gets the chance, he normally scores.”

There is a growing understanding between the pair, one built on timing, movement and trust. If sustained, it could become a decisive factor in Liverpool’s run-in.

Champions League push intensifies

With the victory over Palace, Liverpool strengthened their grip on a top-five position, opening a valuable gap with only four matches remaining. The significance of the result was not lost on Wirtz.

“It is a massive three points today,” he said. “It was clear for us that this game today is really important for the qualification for the Champions League. It’s not done yet, we have a few more games, but a good step today.”

There was also praise for the defensive resilience that underpinned the win, particularly goalkeeper Freddie Woodman.

“He was unbelievable today,” Wirtz added. “He had two or three top saves so I’m really happy for him. He saved us the points.”

In a season defined by fine margins, performances like this carry weight. Liverpool did not dominate throughout, nor did they cruise to victory. Instead, they showed the hallmarks of a side learning how to win when conditions are less than perfect.

Against Palace, it was the combination of structure, opportunism and individual brilliance that made the difference. At the heart of it all was Wirtz, orchestrating, finishing, and articulating a performance that could yet shape Liverpool’s season.