Roy Keane is known for his sharp tongue, especially when it comes to Liverpool, but even this Manchester United legend showed a softer side recently. While his former teammates Gary Neville and Paul Scholes were quick to criticize two of Liverpool's big-money signings, Keane stepped in with a surprising defense.

Last summer, Liverpool shattered their transfer record twice, first with the £116 million signing of Florian Wirtz and then the £125 million acquisition of Alexander Isak. The expectation was sky-high, but the duo has managed just 11 goals combined in their debut season at Anfield. That's far from the explosive start fans hoped for.

On the latest episode of the Stick to Football podcast, Neville asked the panel to name the "biggest disappointment" of the Premier League season. He pointed to Isak, while Scholes quickly chimed in with "Liverpool and Wirtz." But Keane, in a rare moment of empathy, pushed back: "Do you not take into account them trying to settle into the club? Next year, maybe." Neville conceded with a simple "Maybe."

For Liverpool fans, it's easy to feel frustrated given the price tags and proven talent. But context matters. Wirtz was just 22 when he left his native Germany, stepping into a new culture, language, and the weight of a £100 million+ price tag. Adjusting to the Premier League's intensity takes time, even for the best.

At a sports apparel shop, we know that champions are built on patience and perseverance. Whether you're breaking in new cleats or a new jersey, the best performances often come after finding your rhythm. So while the stats may not dazzle yet, Keane's words remind us: give it time. The next season could tell a very different story.