A pre-season defeat to Napoli left the Reds, Jürgen Klopp, and fans disappointed and clutching for positives to take from the game.
The game was marked by listlessness, lapses of concentration, and the lack of a cutting edge up front. There were, however, some good things to be taken from the game – the absence of further injuries being a kind of wooden spoon in terms of achievements on Sunday.
Additionally, though, Klopp’s introduction of the Reds’ prospects gave the side a youthful zest and a dynamism it had seemed to be lacking. Harvey Elliott, making his debut, looked sharp: as did Rhian Brewster.
But what of 22-year-old Harry Wilson – surely we can no longer categorise him amongst promising teenagers?
The Welshman is being linked with a £20-25 million move from Anfield to the likes of Aston Villa and Newcastle and his long-term future at the club is uncertain.
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(Video) Wilson’s 20-yard effort shines as highlight in otherwise lacklustre defeat
Coming on as 62nd-minute substitute, Wilson looked lively and drew fouls with some penetrative runs towards goal. He also took on a particular fierce effort from 20-yards out that took all of the ‘keepers power to keep out.
On the whole, Reds fans seem to rate Wilson – goal-laden loan spell Derby gave a sense of anticipation to his return to Anfield. Now, however, it’s up to Klopp to watch his progress in Evian and to see if he gets handed one more opportunity to impress against Lyon.
Harry Wilson has probably been our best midfielder today. Some clueless people want us to sell him just because.
— Liverpool Red (@lfcredynwa) July 28, 2019
That Harry Wilson effort would have been one of the goals of the preseason had it gone in… Stunning effort nevertheless👍 We played way better in the second half tonight…
— Liverpool🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 (@amitava_auddy) July 28, 2019
Harry Wilson is nice in that advanced 8 role, needs to play there for Wales. Ball striking is elite so it suits him.
— eh? (@GasteIum) July 28, 2019
Harry Wilson is actually a decent player, knows what he’s doing and isn’t afraid to have a shot, should definitely be on the bench when the league starts
— LFC Fan (@xherdanbigshaq) July 28, 2019
Harry Wilson is a fantastic talent. He needs to be around better players, and he will shine. Kent less so, but would succeed at a team like Everton, Newcastle or Rangers.
Elliott is a good addition, let’s see how he settles in. https://t.co/OBfjs5lgla
— Brad (@fortyyardpass) July 28, 2019
#LFC Harry Wilson should not be sold he has the class to shine through and the left foot to go with it. Just needs the players around him
— Arron Gwinnett (@infiniteamg) July 28, 2019