Wirtz – 8, Ngumoha – 7: rating Liverpool players in Leeds United friendly

Liverpool suffered their first defeat of the Andoni Iraola era, falling 4-2 to Leeds United in Chicago. The Reds looked sharp early on and led 2-0 at the break through Florian Wirtz and Luke Chambers, but a disjointed second-half display allowed Leeds to turn the game around and end Liverpool’s USA pre-season tour on a sour note.

Player ratings

Florian Wirtz – 8
In his first appearance in Iraola’s system, Wirtz looked a natural fit. Operating in a free No.10 role, he moved the ball quickly, linked play cleanly and constantly looked to progress attacks. He created several promising moments and capped a strong showing with an excellent close-range finish for his first goal under the new manager.

Trey Nyoni – 8
Another impressive performance from the young midfielder. Nyoni was proactive and sharp in the first half, showing good movement and crisp passing. He also put in solid defensive work, recording four defensive contributions and two recoveries, further underlining how well he is adapting to Iraola’s demands.

Jeremie Frimpong – 7
A positive outing for Frimpong as he continues to settle into the right wing-back role. He was a consistent threat going forward, completing 34 of 35 passes and delivering the cross for Wirtz’s goal. Defensively he was willing and effective, winning three duels and making two recoveries.

Luke Chambers – 7
Playing out of position at centre-back, Chambers again put in a reliable shift. He made several important interventions in the first half and showed composure on the ball. He also scored his first Liverpool goal with a clever close-range finish, though he was powerless to prevent Aaronson’s equaliser before being substituted.

Rio Ngumoha – 7
Back on the left flank after a stint on the right in the previous friendly, Ngumoha was lively and direct. He carried the ball purposefully, linked well with Wirtz and the midfield, and continually looked to create overloads. Another encouraging display in Iraola’s setup.

Curtis Jones – 4.5
A difficult afternoon for Jones. He offered little in possession, looked laboured in his movement and was caught out of position for two of Leeds’ goals. With speculation surrounding a possible move to Inter Milan, this was a performance that will have done little to strengthen his case for a regular role.