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Gary Neville has launched a sharp criticism of Liverpool forwards Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz after their disappointing displays in a dramatic opening-weekend draw against Newcastle. Neville feels the high-priced pair have been given an easy ride over the past year and now need to start producing in the final third quickly if they are to avoid heavy scrutiny this season.

Criticism for expensive Liverpool duo

Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the former defender did not hold back while assessing Liverpool after their 2-2 draw on the opening weekend at St James' Park. He specifically pointed to Isak and Wirtz for failing to make an impact, adding that the club have shown enormous patience with the £200 million pair.

Isak was on the pitch for the full 90 minutes on Sunday, while Wirtz was taken off after an hour for Alexis Mac Allister as Andoni Iraola watched his team struggle. Neville said: "The big thing for Liverpool is they've got this quarter-of-a-billion-pound front two, Isak and Wirtz and bloody hell, we've been kind to them."

Demand for greater tenacity and output

The frustration comes from the huge expectations attached to the two forwards, who arrived for major fees last summer. The pundit believes they are missing the level of aggression needed to thrive.

"They're going to have to start playing sooner or later or else, to be fair, they're going to get quite a lot of criticism. For a start, they're too nice, and if you're going to be nice, you'd better be incredible at football," he continued.

"I don't see the tenacity in Wirtz in particular. I just see a nice player moving around the pitch, not really ever looking like he's busting a gut to do anything. The biggest disappointment for me [Sunday] is those two."

Keeping faith in their undeniable talent

In spite of the severe verdict, there is still belief that both attackers can return to the outstanding form they have shown before. It was pointed out that the Sweden international had injury problems last season, but still has enormous quality.

Neville explained: "I've watched them both for 12 months, and I do actually have faith in them. I think Isak's an exceptional player and we've seen it. I never saw anybody give Gabriel and Saliba or Van Dijk and Konate a tougher time as Isak did when he played at Newcastle in a black and white shirt. I've seen him be devastating. Now Liverpool fans and his team-mates and coaching staff, they need to see that - because that's £125m they've spent on him."

What's next for Liverpool and their forwards?

Liverpool do not have much time to sit on Sunday's frustrating result, with Nottingham Forest up next on Saturday. Andoni Iraola will expect an immediate response from Isak and Wirtz in the forthcoming Premier League match. Wirtz needs to improve his positioning so he can combine more effectively in the final third, while Isak must rediscover his clinical edge. The pressure is now firmly on Isak and Wirtz to prove they are worth their huge price tags.