Manchester City veteran Richards recently participated in The Rest is Football podcast and talked about Liverpool midfielder Wirtz.
Richards said: "He has not yet adapted to the rhythm of the Premier League. Although Liverpool spent 100 million pounds for him, this is definitely the right decision. There is no doubt that he must succeed. In terms of financial investment, Liverpool has spent a lot of money and also lost a lot."
"I know we have discussed players like Alexander-Arnold before, and losing a player of this level will certainly have an impact. Liverpool are now going back to last season. The model, gradually and steadily integrating Wirtz into the lineup, may be to let Gakpo switch to the left, but the pace of the Premier League is too intense."
Richards' partner Lineker said: "It will also be a good thing to bring Wirtz back when the team's confidence is restored. I think this is a reasonable personnel management method at this stage. Let him avoid the pressure of public opinion for the time being, and then gradually use it. We all know his strength. He is indeed an excellent player. The introduction of players of this level is not for performance in the first three months, but for development in the next few years. "
"He is very special. We have witnessed too many performances from him in the past year or two. His talent is unparalleled. As long as he is mentally strong enough to cope with the current situation, he will definitely be able to prove himself. After all, it is not easy for him at this stage. Don't think that he is not under pressure at the moment."
Richards said. Agreeing, he said: "I completely agree. When we discussed this matter, although many people emphasized the amount of his transfer, this was actually to protect him. We have seen his performance in the Champions League and we all know his abilities. My judgment is not based on Bundesliga performance, but on the European competition. He debuted very early and will definitely fulfill his talent. I have no doubt about it."
Lineker finally concluded: "His skills are indeed extraordinary."