‘Relentless’ Liverpool Star Could Turn his Season Around After Southampton Victory | OneFootball

Szoboszlai Shines Against Southampton: A Turning Point for His Season?

Tidy finish with the left foot in this one. Dominik Szoboszlai has shown flashes of brilliance since joining Liverpool, but consistency has often eluded him in front of goal. Prior to the Southampton clash, the Hungarian midfielder had registered just one goal in all competitions this season—a statistic that doesn’t quite reflect his immense potential. However, his performance in the 3-2 win over Southampton may prove to be the spark he needs to truly kick on this season.

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai’s Southampton Performance in Numbers

Szoboszlai’s all-round display against Southampton was really good. His relentless pressing and intelligent off-the-ball movement epitomised Liverpool’s aggressive style of play, but this time, he also delivered on the ball. The stats back this up emphatically:

• Passes Completed: 40/45• Duels Won: 6• Shots: 5• Touches in the Opposition Box: 4• Tackles: 4• Possessions Won: 4• Chances Created: 3• Take-Ons Completed: 2/2• Shots on Target: 2• Goals: 1

Finally opening his account for the Premier League season, Szoboszlai’s goal came from Liverpool’s relentless pressing. Reflecting on it, he said, “That was our plan, we knew it—they want to try to build from behind and we knew they are really good. So we had to make the press really well. Everybody did well, the whole team; if one starts, the other one follows. That’s why they were under pressure, they couldn’t kick the ball long, they played it to me and I could score.”

The Importance of Confidence and Competition

Despite his strong work rate, Szoboszlai has occasionally struggled to influence games in possession. The pressure is heightened given the fierce competition in Liverpool’s midfield, with the likes of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Curtis Jones all vying for starting spots. Each brings a unique skill set to the table, and this depth has forced Szoboszlai to push his limits.

When asked about how Liverpool regained control after falling 2-1 behind in the second half, Szoboszlai emphasised the team’s resilience. “Of course, we didn’t play alone against nobody—they are a very good team and scored two goals. The biggest question is: how can you step up after conceding two goals? I think we showed it today, not the first time [that] even from behind we still can win the games.” Such mental fortitude, coupled with a performance as complete as this one, could mark a turning point for Szoboszlai. Confidence is crucial for any midfielder, and getting off the mark could lighten the burden of expectation he carries.

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai’s Role in Liverpool’s Title Push

With Liverpool now sitting eight points clear at the top of the table, Szoboszlai was also quick to temper expectations. “Last year when I came, I started to speak too much about what’s going to be if, what’s going to be if. Now I just look game by game. We are eight points [ahead at the] top of the table, but I said it before—the season is still long and we have to just continue to look at ourselves and not what the other ones are doing.” This measured approach highlights the growing maturity in Szoboszlai’s game.

While competition for places in midfield remains fierce, performances like this one against Southampton will only boost his standing within the squad. If he continues to combine his tireless off-the-ball work with decisive contributions on it, Szoboszlai could become a key player in Liverpool’s title bid.

A Platform to Build On

Dominik Szoboszlai’s ability to influence games off the ball has never been in doubt, but his performance against Southampton demonstrated that he has the quality to match. His goal was not just a reflection of Liverpool’s tactical pressing but also a reminder of his technical prowess.

As the season progresses, Szoboszlai will be keen to build on this platform and silence any doubts about his impact in the Premier League. With his confidence seemingly restored and competition driving him forward, the Hungarian midfielder could yet prove to be one of Liverpool’s most influential players this season.