Iraola Says 1 Midfield Signing Won't Fix Liverpool After 2-2 Newcastle Draw
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 23
Iraola Says 1 Midfield Signing Won't Fix Liverpool After 2-2 Newcastle Draw
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 23
Summary
Iraola said Liverpool’s defensive issues cannot be solved by adding a specialist holding midfielder after a 2-2 opening-day draw at Newcastle.
Two Newcastle goals came in transition, with Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock exploiting space as Liverpool were exposed on the counter and lacked protection in front of the back line.
Iraola said the problem was collective rather than positional, arguing Liverpool must adapt better in those moments, compete for first balls and even make tactical fouls.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time penalty rescued a point at St James’ Park, and Iraola said Liverpool deserved it after creating more and playing with greater pressure in the second half.