Why Szoboszlai’s Liverpool criticism is unfair and exaggerated

In the latest episode of Anfield Index’s Media Matters, David Lynch spoke to Dave Davis to unpack Liverpool’s ongoing Premier League campaign. One topic that has garnered attention has been recent fan criticism aimed at Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai. With Liverpool sitting top of the Premier League table, some fans have expressed concerns over Szoboszlai’s performances, but Lynch was quick to come to the Hungarian’s defense.

Szoboszlai’s contributions often overlooked by fans

During the conversation, Lynch highlighted how Szoboszlai’s performances were wrongly overshadowed by moments of carelessness with the ball. He said: “He’s had a few games where he’s been a bit sloppy, but that’s decision-making. It’s not a lack of quality. Lynch stressed that Szoboszlai’s occasional missteps do not reflect his overall contribution to Liverpool’s success this season.

Lynch continued to explain how Szoboszlai’s work rate is often overlooked. “The workload he is under is ridiculous. He plays a similar role to Fabinho in previous seasons, acting as an extra man in attack and defense,” explained Lynch. Szoboszlai’s ability to transition from attack to defense with ease makes him a crucial part of Liverpool’s midfield.

Negligent in possession but unlucky on Key Miss

One of the main areas of criticism has been Szoboszlai’s lack of possession, particularly in Liverpool’s recent matches. Lynch acknowledged this flaw, but also pointed out that it was part of a larger learning curve. “He just needs to tighten up the possession a bit,” Lynch commented. “But the quality is there. He’s still adapting and some of the passes he’s making show what he’s capable of.

Lynch then recalled a moment from Liverpool’s game against Wolves, where Szoboszlai missed a close-range chance that some fans deemed unforgivable. Defending the midfielder, Lynch noted: “That mistake was so unlucky. The ball hit the goalkeeper in a way no one could have predicted. It wasn’t a bad finish, it was just bad timing.

Szoboszlai’s role in Liverpool’s defensive success

While fans may focus on Szoboszlai’s mistakes, Lynch argued that his defensive contributions are what truly sets him apart. “He’s not just an attacking midfielder,” Lynch stressed. “Szoboszlai returns, covers the pitch and helps Liverpool maintain defensive stability.” This dual responsibility of contributing to both offense and defense is no easy task, and Szoboszlai has taken it on with a high level of commitment.

According to Lynch, Szoboszlai’s pressing and ability to win back possession has been key to Liverpool’s improved defensive record this season. “It shows in the numbers. Liverpool’s expected goals are significantly better, and Szoboszlai is a big part of that,” Lynch said. “He covers a lot of ground to slow down the opposition, making it harder for them to break through.”

Szoboszlai is key to Liverpool’s midfield future

Lynch closed his defense of Szoboszlai by saying the Hungarian international is not just a player for now, but for Liverpool’s future. “Szoboszlai is not going anywhere. He is a key part of what Slot wants to build. Fans need to understand that the sloppiness will fade, but his work rate and quality on the ball will only improve.

This endorsement from David Lynch is a reminder that while Szoboszlai can still improve, his contributions to Liverpool’s midfield should not be underestimated. With more time to adapt to the Premier League and Slot system, Szoboszlai is set to become one of Liverpool’s most important players.