Liverpool International Break Roundup: Dominik Szoboszlai, Andy Robertson and More
Szoboszlai and Robertson Feature in Mixed Night for Liverpool Trio
International duty offered a varied experience for Liverpool's contingent on Friday, as Dominik Szoboszlai and Andy Robertson captained their respective nations, while Lewis Koumas made a second-half appearance in a World Cup qualifier.
Szoboszlai Leads Hungary in Budapest Defeat
There's no questioning the responsibility placed on Dominik Szoboszlai's shoulders for Hungary. The Liverpool midfielder was handed the captain's armband once again, symbolising both his influence and growing maturity. However, this latest test didn't go to plan. Hungary fell 2-0 to Sweden in a friendly at the Puskas Arena, and while the result may not have significance on paper, the performance will have raised eyebrows.
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Szoboszlai played 79 minutes before being substituted. His involvement was industrious but lacked end product, a reflection perhaps of a side still seeking attacking fluency. For Liverpool, the concern won't be form, rather fitness, and Szoboszlai came through the fixture unscathed. With Arne Slot's Premier League title defence ahead, any risk to one of his midfield lynchpins would be keenly felt.
Robertson Endures Deflating Night for Scotland
Andy Robertson continues to be one of Scotland's most trusted figures, but this was a night to forget at Hampden Park. The Liverpool left-back completed the full 90 minutes in a 3-1 defeat to Iceland, a result that will draw criticism regardless of the context of it being a friendly.
Photo: IMAGO
For Robertson, the positives are minimal. Despite leading by example and maintaining a solid defensive shape early on, Scotland's backline was eventually breached too easily. As Liverpool prepare for the new campaign, Robertson's match fitness and leadership remain undisputed, but Scotland's defensive frailties may force him to shoulder more pressure than ideal during breaks.
Koumas Gets Taste of Qualifying Action
In contrast to the established stature of Szoboszlai and Robertson, Lewis Koumas is still finding his international feet. The Liverpool forward came off the bench in the 64th minute for Wales in a comfortable 3-0 win over Liechtenstein in Cardiff.
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Craig Bellamy's side made light work of their opposition in the Group J World Cup qualifier, and Koumas was able to enjoy the occasion with minimal stress. While his minutes were limited, the experience itself will be valuable for the young attacker. Slot and his coaching team will be watching closely, especially given the potential for squad rotation over a packed season.
Liverpool Trio Underline Depth and Influence
While results varied, the trio's involvement highlights Liverpool's reach across the international scene. Szoboszlai's command in midfield, Robertson's consistency at full-back, and Koumas's emergence all offer depth and promise for Arne Slot's squad. More importantly, each player returned with no injury concerns, which for Liverpool is perhaps the most crucial takeaway from this international window.
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