Unseen since 2011! Florian Wirtz makes Premier League history in Liverpool comeback
Florian Wirtz set a 15-year Premier League record, while Virgil van Dijk captained Liverpool for the 200th time in their win over Brentford.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Author: Jeff Buck
Florian Wirtz delivered a playmaker masterclass to inspire Liverpool's 2-1 comeback victory over Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. The German midfielder provided the assist for Victor Munoz's second-half equalizer before Alexander Isak sealed the three points for the visitors.
Wirtz, who was awarded Player of the Match, consistently dissected Brentford's low block throughout the second half. His creative output proved decisive in overcoming a half-time deficit in West London.
According to Opta data, Wirtz created nine chances from open play during the contest. This is the highest number of open-play chances created by an individual in a Premier League game since January 2021. Furthermore, it stands as the highest away figure in the top flight for over 15 years, surpassing a mark set by Samir Nasri in August 2011. Manager Andoni Iraola praised the midfielder's unique ability to find space against deeply retreated defenses.
The fixture also marked a historic personal milestone for defender Virgil van Dijk, who captained Liverpool for the 200th time. The Dutch centre-back became only the eighth player in the club's history to reach a double-century with the armband, joining an illustrious list that includes Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson.
These historic achievements capped a successful afternoon for Andoni Iraola's squad. With leaders firing on all cylinders, Liverpool maintain momentum across domestic and European fronts as they prepare to host Villarreal at Anfield in the UEFA Champions League.