Dominik Szoboszlai’s first games for Liverpool have definitely exceeded expectations. Jürgen Klopp was an admirer of the Hungarian, but perhaps he didn’t even expect how quickly Szoboszlai would settle into his team at Liverpool.
Much has been said about the Hungarian’s energy on the pitch, the way he competes in the many duels and the kind of protection he provides to the Liverpool defence.
But against Aston Villa we also saw what he can do for Liverpool in the future. His stunning finish which opened the scoring in the match will be long remembered by the Anfield faithful who witnessed it. It was not Szoboszlai’s first shot for Liverpool in the Premier League this season, however.
The opener came against Bournemouth, who were saved by Neto and fired by Diogo Jota, who put the ball into the net with vigor. Moreover, Szoboszlai also scored a penalty in this match which means he has been involved in at least three goals after four games so far in a Liverpool shirt.
Various sources claimed that Szoboszlai was used in a more defensive role at Liverpool. Even Marco Rossi suggested the Hungarian should ‘shoot more for Liverpool’ in an exclusive interview. But the numbers certainly don’t reflect that. According to FBref, Szoboszlai has the most dribbles (seven), the most runs inside the penalty area (six) and the most touches on the ball in the final third (81) of any Liverpool player. nowadays.
Moreover, with eight shots in four games, Szoboszlai is already well ahead of the list of shots made by Liverpool midfielders. Second on the list behind him is Harvey Elliott, who has only fired one shot so far.
There is still room for improvement, but the fact that he is encouraged to shoot and take advantage of the opportunities that come his way is an encouraging sign. Klopp is clearly trying to transform and revolutionize his midfield at Liverpool. Szoboszlai could be the key player in his attempts as the Hungarian’s shots can add a new dimension to Liverpool’s game.
Whether he scores directly or with Jota’s goal, the ball is returned to a Liverpool striker. A player who can get shots on target from long range is a great asset to any team.
