Five key questions were answered for Andoni Iraola during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Newcastle
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Who do you think was Liverpool’s worst player as they snatched a draw with Newcastle? But Sunday’s game suggested that he may not have it for long.The 17-year-old struggled up against Lewis Hall, and while he will get better, this was a clear signal that it will take a whole lot of time before he is good enough to be starting there.
Munoz should be the choice for next week against Nottingham Forest, and this showed that Ngumoha may be better used on the left, with the new arrival a right-sided option.Liverpool need a defensive midfielderThroughout the summer, it has been reiterated that Liverpool do not see the need to strengthen what they have in midfield. Twice the Reds were punished.It doesn’t look like it will come, but Liverpool really do need to do everything possible to buy a specialist ball-winner in the middle of the pitch.Liverpool’s full-backs aren’t good enoughAnother problem for the Reds has been at right-back, where a lot of faith is being put in Jeremie Frimpong.The Dutchman was woeful on Sunday, though, and along with Milos Kerkez, he could not get the ball into the box that Liverpool needed.It is a far cry from the days of Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and with Iraola putting so much emphasis on his full-backs, it is clear that this pair are a long way off the quality required.Cody Gakpo cannot be soldOne more story to watch over the next days is what will happen with Cody Gakpo.
As Liverpool chase new wingers, there is every chance that the 27-year-old leaves for Tottenham.After what he showed against Newcastle, Liverpool would be making a huge mistake by selling Gakpo.He was the Reds’ best player on the day, and deserved his goal, which he took brilliantly from distance.He may not be a starter once Bradley Barcola is hopefully signed, but Gakpo showed what value he has to this team. Whoever comes in, the Dutchman cannot leave.Liverpool are fine at centre-backWhile there were some poor performances for Liverpool, there were also a couple of very good ones.One was Gakpo, another was Munoz, and the other two were debutant centre-backs Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo.Jacquet started and looked really, really composed, even if he will be disappointed collectively by the two goals conceded.