Florian Wirtz expects short absence after ankle injury in Liverpool win

Florian Wirtz says he does not expect to be sidelined for long after suffering an ankle injury during Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Brighton in the Premier League.

Liverpool secured their first home league win of the season as goals in the eighth-round meeting ended Brighton’s eight-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Wirtz said Liverpool had displayed the right attitude and controlled the early stages of the match.

“We had the right mentality against Brighton and completely imposed ourselves during the first 30 minutes,” said the Germany international. “We were excellent in the duels and it was great to finish the first half ahead.”

Wirtz was then asked about the ankle problem that forced him to leave the action.

“Regarding my ankle injury, I think everything will be OK,” he said. “It is not a serious injury. I do not know the details yet and I first need to undergo medical tests, but I will not be out for long.”

The 22-year-old added that he was pleased with Liverpool’s recent progress and believed the club were moving towards their desired level.

“A lot of things have been going well recently, so I am happy,” Wirtz said. “We are on the right path to reach the level we want.”

The result brought an end to the unbeaten record of Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, whose side had avoided defeat in their previous eight matches across all competitions. Brighton had won six of those games and drawn two.

Liverpool have now won each of their four matches since their 3-0 defeat by Manchester City. Their victory over Brighton was also their first league success at Anfield during the current campaign.

The three points lifted Liverpool to 15 points and fourth place in the Premier League table. They moved to within one point of Brighton, who remain third on 16 points.

Liverpool’s win strengthened their recent run of results, while Brighton’s unbeaten sequence came to an end despite the visitors beginning the match above their opponents in the standings.