Dominik Szoboszlai: The Indispensable Engine Room of this Liverpool Side
It’s been a strange few weeks at Liverpool, hasn’t it? Four straight defeats, a wobble that raised a few eyebrows, even after securing the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s debut season. You have to admit, seeing the champions struggle like that felt… off. But then came the 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt, and with it, a return to something resembling the relentless machine we know. Amidst the chaos of form dips and resurrections, one constant, one undeniable presence, has been Dominik Szoboszlai.
Szoboszlai’s Season Brilliance
His early season form was outstanding, and even the team’s recent slump couldn’t overshadow his individual quality. Discussing his impact after the Frankfurt demolition, David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, made it perfectly clear: “He has been brilliant all season and I think he has to be on the teamsheet no matter what.”
This isn’t hyperbole, it’s just a statement of fact. Szoboszlai provides the kind of dynamism that turns a good midfield into a great one. The stats from the Frankfurt match are staggering, 17 passes into the final third, winning all of his duels. That’s a midfielder who is both a creative spark and a physical force.
Final Third Impact and More
It’s tempting to focus solely on the flashy assists or the powerful strikes, but Lynch highlighted a more comprehensive contribution: “He’s got that final-third end product and now has a lot more experience, but it’s everything else he does as well in terms of plugging gaps.”
That phrase, “plugging gaps”, is key. It speaks to the footballing intelligence and the willingness to do the dirty work that elevates him beyond a mere attacking talent. He possesses the versatility and work rate that Slot’s system demands, often covering ground others cannot.
Recovery Pace and Relentless Drive
Football at the highest level requires recovery, the ability to transition instantly from attack to defence. If a pass goes astray, or a press is breached, who gets back to snuff out the danger?
Lynch’s assessment is crystal clear: “He has that recovery pace if anything goes wrong and he’s the real engine of this team.”
An engine is the heart of a machine, providing power and motion. Szoboszlai is that power source for Liverpool. His tireless running and speed allow the team to maintain a high defensive line with more confidence, knowing he has the legs to bail them out.
Midfield Must-Have
While the recent form of others, specifically Alexis Mac Allister, has been a talking point, Szoboszlai’s place remains secure. Lynch’s view on the need for control echoes the general sentiment: “At the moment while Mac Allister is so badly out of form and we need more control in midfield, it’s good to have him in there.”
Ultimately, the consensus among observers and fans seems to align with Lynch’s final word on the matter: “Regardless of where he plays, he has to be in the team and I would prefer him to be in midfield.” Given his relentless energy, creative output, and defensive contribution, he is not just a key player, he is the key player in the current setup, ensuring Liverpool’s engine continues to run, even when the rest of the chassis is wobbling. The win against Frankfurt, and Szoboszlai’s magnificent display, was a reassuring step back onto solid ground.
