Liverpool wrapped up 2025 in impressive form, extending their strong run with a fourth consecutive victory and pushing their unbeaten streak to seven matches. Still, despite the positive results, Arne Slot’s side once again made life harder for themselves than many expected.
As reigning Premier League champions, Liverpool went into the clash as clear favourites against a struggling Wolves team that had managed to collect just two points all season.
When Ryan Gravenberch and Florian Wirtz struck within a blistering 90-second spell just before half-time, it looked as though the Reds were heading for a routine and comfortable afternoon at Anfield. The timing and quality of those goals suggested Liverpool might cruise through the second half without too much resistance.
That sense of calm did not last long. Only five minutes after the restart, Santiago Bueno capitalised on Liverpool’s ongoing vulnerability at set pieces to pull a goal back for Wolves.
The strike immediately shifted the mood inside the stadium, introducing tension and uncertainty where there had been confidence moments earlier. As Wolves pushed forward and Liverpool struggled to fully regain control, the atmosphere became noticeably edgy.
The nerves were so evident that Ibrahima Konaté took it upon himself to urge the Anfield crowd to raise the volume, trying to lift both the players and the energy inside the ground during a tense closing period.
Konaté himself has faced criticism throughout the season, often finding himself under scrutiny for inconsistent performances. Another player who has endured a similarly difficult campaign is Milos Kerkez, whose early displays even prompted Gary Neville to liken his play unfavourably to that of a “10-year-old.”
However, against Wolves, the 22-year-old Hungarian left-back delivered one of his most encouraging performances since arriving at Anfield. Kerkez showed far greater confidence and composure, contributing both defensively and in attack. His display did not go unnoticed by Liverpool Echo reporter Ian Doyle, who rated him 7 out of 10 and praised his willingness to provide an outlet down the left flank.
Doyle also highlighted Kerkez’s work rate, noting how he consistently tracked back while also pushing forward, and how his determination after the break helped re-energise the crowd.
The statistics further supported the positive impression. According to Sofascore, Kerkez won seven duels, completed two of his three attempted dribbles, and achieved an excellent 96% pass completion rate, successfully finding a teammate with 69 of his 72 passes.
Defensively, he contributed four tackles and four clearances, underlining his all-round involvement.
Kerkez not only looked solid at the back but also offered width and drive going forward, even getting into a promising attacking position during the first half. Although his shot ultimately sailed wide into the Anfield Road Stand, it reflected a growing confidence in his game.
His aggressive approach also unsettled Wolves midfielder André Trindade, leading to a heated second-half exchange. With the Brazilian already on a yellow card, referee Simon Hooper chose to issue a final warning rather than escalate the situation.
After a challenging start to his Liverpool career, Kerkez can draw real confidence from this performance. If he can build on displays like this, the young defender may yet prove to be an important long-term asset for Slot’s side in the months and years ahead.
