The Kopite View

Liverpool supporters could be in for a special sight in Turkey tomorrow, with Mohamed Salah reportedly set to be in attendance to watch the Reds take on Fenerbahçe.

According to ESPN FC, the Egyptian King will be there to watch Liverpool in their Champions League fixture, giving supporters another reminder of the special bond he has with the club.

And let’s be honest, seeing Mo back around Liverpool is always something that brings a smile to the faces of the fans.

The Egyptian King still has a special connection with Liverpool

Salah has given Liverpool supporters so many unforgettable memories over the years.

From his incredible goalscoring records to his performances on the biggest European nights, he has established himself as one of the most important players of the modern Liverpool era.

He has been a match-winner, a record-breaker and a player who has helped bring major trophies back to Anfield.

For supporters, he will always be held in enormous affection.

His reported attendance in Turkey will therefore be a welcome boost for the travelling Liverpool fans, who will be hoping to see their team produce a strong performance.

Liverpool need to give Mo something to smile about

After the disappointing 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at Anfield, Liverpool need to respond.

Andoni Iraola’s side have made an excellent start to their Champions League campaign, winning their opening three matches, but the Premier League performances have been less convincing.

Tomorrow’s trip to Istanbul presents another difficult test.

Fenerbahçe will have a passionate home crowd behind them, and Liverpool cannot afford to start slowly or allow the occasion to overwhelm them.

They need to show the intensity, confidence and attacking quality that supporters know this team possesses.

What better way to welcome a Liverpool legend back into the picture than with a convincing European performance?

A welcome sight for Liverpool supporters

There is something special about seeing former Liverpool heroes continuing to support the club.

Salah has already given the supporters countless reasons to celebrate, and his reported presence in Turkey will undoubtedly attract plenty of attention.

Of course, his attendance should not be confused with any suggestion that he is returning to the playing squad. The story is simply that he is expected to be there to watch his former teammates.

But that doesn’t make it any less special.

Let’s hope Liverpool can put on a performance worthy of the Egyptian King!

Three points, a strong reaction to the Arsenal defeat and a memorable European night in Turkey would be a pretty good way to spend tomorrow evening.

You’ll Never Walk Alone, Mo!

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool don’t have time to feel sorry for themselves after Sunday’s disappointing defeat to Arsenal. The Reds must put that result behind them and produce a response when they travel to Turkey to face Fenerbahçe in the Champions League.

Andoni Iraola’s side have plenty to prove.

Losing 1-0 at Anfield was frustrating enough, but the biggest concern was Liverpool failing to register a single shot on target despite having 17 attempts. That simply isn’t good enough for a team with the attacking talent Liverpool possess.

Now comes a completely different challenge.

A trip to Istanbul is never straightforward, and Liverpool will need to be mentally prepared for the atmosphere awaiting them at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium. The Fenerbahçe supporters will make plenty of noise, and the Reds must be ready to silence them.

Liverpool need to show a reaction

I’m not expecting Liverpool to suddenly solve every problem in one match, but I do want to see a response.

The Arsenal defeat highlighted some of the issues we’ve been discussing for weeks. Liverpool can get into promising positions, move the ball around and put opponents under pressure, but too often the final pass, movement or decision in the penalty area lets them down.

Alexander Isak cannot keep being left isolated.

Our midfield needs to do more to supply the forwards with quality service. We need quicker forward passing, more creativity and players willing to take responsibility rather than constantly playing safe passes.

There is no shortage of attacking quality in this squad. The challenge is getting the best out of it.

Iraola has already shown that Liverpool can be an exciting attacking side in European competition, scoring 12 goals in their opening three Champions League matches. We need to see that confidence and attacking intent again.

A difficult night awaits in Istanbul

Liverpool might have a perfect Champions League record so far, but that counts for very little once the match kicks off.

Fenerbahçe will be desperate to make the most of playing at home, and their supporters will create an intimidating atmosphere.

There is also a familiar face in the opposition dugout.

Former Liverpool favourite Dirk Kuyt is currently in interim charge of Fenerbahçe, adding an interesting subplot to the occasion. He knows exactly what Liverpool mean to their supporters, but there will be no room for sentiment once the game gets underway.

Liverpool must start well, keep their discipline and avoid giving the home crowd something to feed off.

The longer Fenerbahçe believe they can get something from the game, the more difficult the evening could become.

Gravenberch’s absence is another problem

Liverpool will also have to cope without Ryan Gravenberch, who has been left out of the travelling squad because of a heel problem.

That’s a significant absence, particularly with Liverpool already trying to find the right balance in midfield.

Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Trey Nyoni are among the options available to Iraola, but whoever starts must bring energy, composure and the ability to move the ball forward.

I would like to see Liverpool take more risks in possession. We need players breaking lines, getting into dangerous areas and supporting Isak rather than leaving him to battle against defenders on his own.

This is exactly the sort of game where Liverpool need their midfield to take control.

Three points would be a huge boost

Liverpool have won their opening three Champions League matches, beating Atlético Madrid, LASK and Villarreal.

Another victory would take them to 12 points and put them in a strong position in the league phase.

That makes Wednesday’s game particularly important. It is an opportunity to put the Arsenal disappointment behind us while continuing the impressive start in Europe.

But I don’t want Liverpool simply turning up and hoping their individual quality gets them through.

I want to see intensity, better movement, sharper finishing and a team willing to fight for every ball.

The supporters deserve a response, and the players need to show that Sunday’s defeat hasn’t knocked their confidence.

My message to Liverpool: Go out and make a statement!

I’m not going to pretend everything is suddenly fine because Liverpool have been scoring goals in Europe. The Premier League performances have shown that there is still plenty of work for Iraola to do.

However, this squad has enough quality to put things right.

A difficult away trip to Turkey is exactly the sort of occasion when Liverpool need to show their character. Keep the crowd quiet, take control of the midfield and give Isak and the other forwards the service they need.

Forget the disappointment against Arsenal. It’s time to stand up, respond and remind everyone what Liverpool are capable of.

Three points in Istanbul would be a very welcome way to get things back on track.

Come on, Reds!

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool could be preparing one of the biggest transfer moves in their history, with Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde reportedly emerging as a major target for Andoni Iraola.

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are considering a staggering €100 million (£83m) offer for the Uruguay international, who is viewed as a potential replacement for Alexis Mac Allister.

It is a huge figure, but if Liverpool are serious about rebuilding their midfield, Valverde would certainly be an exciting addition.

There is, however, one enormous obstacle.

Real Madrid have no intention of selling one of José Mourinho’s key players.

Why Liverpool want Federico Valverde

At 28, Valverde is entering what should be some of the best years of his career.

He is one of those midfielders who seems capable of doing almost everything. He has tremendous energy, excellent technical ability, can carry the ball forward, contribute defensively and deliver goals from midfield.

He can also operate in several positions, including central midfield and right-back.

That versatility would be particularly useful for Liverpool, who have struggled to find the right balance in midfield this season.

I’ve made no secret of the fact that I want more steel in the middle of the park. Liverpool need players who can win their battles, protect the defence and still have the quality to move the ball forward.

Valverde ticks an awful lot of those boxes.

He would bring intensity, athleticism and leadership, while giving Iraola another player capable of influencing matches in different ways.

Is Alexis Mac Allister’s future in doubt?

The most interesting part of this report is the suggestion that Valverde could be brought in as a replacement for Mac Allister.

The Argentine remains a quality footballer, but uncertainty surrounding his long-term contract situation has led to speculation about his future.

Mac Allister’s current deal runs until 2028, meaning Liverpool cannot afford to leave important decisions until the last minute.

Personally, I wouldn’t be rushing to lose him. He has shown his quality at Anfield and remains an important player when performing at his best.

However, Liverpool must always be looking ahead.

If Mac Allister is not going to commit his future to the club, the recruitment team need to consider their options rather than allowing the situation to drift.

Replacing him with Valverde would certainly be a statement of intent.

Real Madrid are unlikely to make it easy

Unfortunately, this is where things become complicated.

Real Madrid reportedly have no plans to sell Valverde, who is regarded as an important part of Mourinho’s plans.

He is also contracted to the Spanish giants until 2029, giving them a strong negotiating position.

A €100m offer would be enormous, but money does not necessarily tempt a club to sell a player they consider essential.

Valverde has also previously spoken about his affection for Real Madrid, so Liverpool would need to establish whether the player himself would even consider a move to the Premier League.

This is not a straightforward transfer.

Would I spend €100m on Valverde?

Absolutely, I would be interested.

Liverpool have spent heavily on attacking talent, but I still believe the midfield needs serious attention.

We have players with technical ability, but I want to see more physical presence, energy and authority in the middle of the pitch.

Valverde would offer all of that without sacrificing quality on the ball.

Imagine having a midfielder who can win possession, drive through the lines, support the attack and cover ground for 90 minutes. He would give Iraola another dimension and could help address several of Liverpool’s current weaknesses.

Of course, €100m is a massive investment, and Liverpool would need to be certain that the deal makes financial and footballing sense.

But if Valverde became available, I would certainly want the club to explore it.

Liverpool need to get their midfield recruitment right

This rumour also shows how ambitious Liverpool’s plans could be if they decide to make significant changes next summer.

Lamine Camara has also been linked with a move to Anfield, and he could offer a different profile to Valverde.

The important thing is that Liverpool don’t simply sign players because they are available. They need to identify exactly what the midfield is missing and recruit accordingly.

For me, a player with Valverde’s energy, quality and versatility would be an outstanding addition.

Real Madrid may have other ideas, though, and convincing them to part with one of their most important players could prove almost impossible.

A €100m move for Federico Valverde would certainly get Liverpool supporters excited. If there is even a small chance of bringing him to Anfield, I would love to see the club try.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

How much are Liverpool supporters expected to put up with?

For years, we’ve watched our club compete at the highest level, challenge for major trophies and go toe-to-toe with some of the biggest clubs in Europe.

But there is an increasingly frustrating feeling among supporters that Liverpool are not being treated consistently when it comes to Premier League refereeing decisions.

And when you read Paul Tomkins’ latest statistical breakdown for The Tomkins Times, it makes for some seriously uncomfortable reading.

The argument being made is that Liverpool are being refereed differently from other clubs, with statistics suggesting that the Reds are regularly on the wrong side of decisions involving fouls and challenges.

It’s difficult not to ask questions when the same concerns keep appearing.

The numbers behind Liverpool’s refereeing frustration

Tomkins has looked at thousands of Premier League matches to examine the relationship between tackles, fouls and attacking dominance.

One of his findings is that there is a strong correlation between the number of tackles a team makes and the number of fouls it concedes.

However, his analysis suggests Liverpool are an extraordinary exception.

He argues that Liverpool are the team most likely to have their tackles given as fouls, while also being the team least likely to be awarded a foul when opponents tackle them.

Tomkins also examined his own measure of attacking dominance, based on shots and corners compared with those conceded.

His argument is that teams which dominate those statistics generally enjoy a better foul balance.

Again, he believes Liverpool are an outlier.

These are statistical arguments rather than proof of deliberate wrongdoing, but they deserve proper examination.

The Arsenal game brought the frustration back

Sunday’s 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at Anfield has only added to the anger.

Liverpool were already behind when Alexander Isak had his shirt pulled by Jurrien Timber inside the penalty area.

Referee Andy Madley did not award a penalty, and VAR official Stuart Attwell did not intervene.

From a Liverpool perspective, it was an incredibly frustrating decision.

Had the penalty been given and converted, the game could have taken a completely different direction.

Instead, Liverpool were left chasing an equaliser and ultimately suffered another disappointing home defeat.

There were other problems with Liverpool’s performance, including Alisson’s mistake for the goal and the failure to register a shot on target.

But that does not mean supporters should simply forget the decisions that went against them.

305 games without an opposition second yellow

Another statistic highlighted by Tomkins Times is Liverpool’s remarkable run of 305 league matches without an opposition player being sent off for a second yellow card.

That is almost eight years.

The closest figures since 2015 were Everton on 209 matches and Manchester United on 184.

Again, that statistic does not automatically mean Liverpool should have seen more opponents dismissed. Every incident has to be judged on its own merits.

But when you combine it with the wider arguments about foul balance and decisions, it certainly gives supporters something to think about.

Why has the run lasted so long?

And are Liverpool consistently receiving the same interpretation of the rules as everyone else?

Those are fair questions.

Is there any point if the rules aren’t applied consistently?

This is where the frustration really comes from.

Liverpool supporters don’t expect every decision to go their way. We know referees make mistakes, and we know our own players are capable of giving away fouls and making poor challenges.

But we want consistency.

If a Liverpool player commits a bookable offence, show the yellow card. If an opposition player commits the same offence, apply the same standard.

If a shirt pull is enough to award a penalty in one match, why should it be treated differently in another?

The Premier League sells itself as the best football competition in the world. Its refereeing standards should reflect that.

Instead, supporters are left debating statistics, controversial decisions and whether VAR is actually improving the game.

Liverpool must keep fighting – but the officials need to do better

I don’t want Liverpool supporters to reach the point where we believe there is no point competing.

We have a club with an incredible history, a passionate fanbase and a team that should be judged on its performances over the course of a season.

Andoni Iraola has plenty to improve on the pitch, and Liverpool cannot use refereeing decisions to excuse every disappointing result.

But the officials must also be accountable.

Paul Tomkins has presented figures that raise serious questions about how Liverpool are being refereed. Rather than dismissing those concerns as supporters looking for excuses, the authorities should be willing to examine the data and explain what it tells us.

Liverpool don’t want favours. We simply want the same rules, the same standards and the same level of protection as every other club.

Because when supporters start asking what’s the point, the Premier League should be listening.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters have had plenty to say about refereeing decisions over the years, and one statistic has emerged that is certainly going to get people talking.

According to figures highlighted by Tomkins Times, Liverpool have gone 305 Premier League games without an opposition player being dismissed for a second yellow card.

That’s almost eight years without seeing an opponent receive a second yellow and an early walk down the tunnel.

To put that into perspective, the closest figures since 2015 belong to Everton, who have gone 209 games without an opposition second-yellow dismissal, followed by Manchester United on 184.

It is quite a gap.

Liverpool’s 305-game run stands out

The numbers make for interesting reading.

● Liverpool: 305 games

● Everton: 209 games

● Manchester United: 184 games

Liverpool’s run is 96 matches longer than Everton’s and 121 longer than Manchester United’s.

Of course, there are different factors involved in how often teams face opponents who deserve a second yellow card. Playing style, possession, the type of challenges opponents make and individual refereeing decisions can all influence the numbers.

But when a run stretches across 305 league matches, it is understandable why supporters would take notice.

Another statistic for Liverpool fans to debate

This comes at a time when refereeing decisions involving Liverpool are already under the spotlight.

The recent defeat against Arsenal brought further frustration after Alexander Isak had his shirt pulled by William Saliba’s defensive colleague Jurrien Timber, but Liverpool were not awarded a penalty.

Andoni Iraola has also spoken about the need for players to make more of contact if they want decisions to go their way.

Liverpool supporters don’t expect every decision to go in their favour. Nobody does.

What they do expect is consistency.

If an opponent commits a bookable offence, it should not matter whether the player is already on a yellow card or whether the decision comes at Anfield, Old Trafford or Goodison Park.

The rules should be applied in the same way.

Is it bad luck, playing style or something else?

I wouldn’t claim that this statistic proves Liverpool have been treated unfairly by officials. It doesn’t tell us how many second-yellow incidents should have resulted in dismissals, or whether those incidents were comparable.

But it does raise an interesting question.

Why is Liverpool’s run so much longer than the other clubs mentioned?

Is it simply coincidence? Does Liverpool’s style of play influence the number of second-yellow situations opponents find themselves in? Or have there been occasions when referees could have shown a second yellow but chose not to?

Those are questions worth discussing, particularly when supporters are already questioning consistency across the Premier League.

Liverpool fans will want consistency, not favours

The most important thing is that referees make the correct decisions.

Liverpool don’t need special treatment, and I certainly wouldn’t want officials giving opponents red cards just to end a statistic.

But the same standards must apply to every club.

A second bookable offence should result in a second yellow card. It shouldn’t depend on the stadium, the scoreline or the reputation of the player involved.

305 league games is an extraordinary run, and it is certainly a statistic that will catch the attention of Liverpool supporters.

Perhaps there is a perfectly reasonable explanation for it. But after the recent frustrations over refereeing, you can understand why fans are asking questions.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have confirmed their travelling squad for Wednesday night’s Champions League clash against Fenerbahce, with Andoni Iraola taking a group of 22 players to Turkey.

There are some notable names included, but also one important absentee.

Ryan Gravenberch is missing after picking up a heel problem, meaning Liverpool will have to cope without the Dutch midfielder for a potentially difficult European away fixture.

However, there is still plenty of quality in the travelling group, with Virgil van Dijk, Alisson Becker, Florian Wirtz, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexander Isak all included.

Liverpool’s travelling squad in full

Goalkeepers: Alisson, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Freddie Woodman.

Defenders: Joe Gomez, Virgil van Dijk, Giovanni Leoni, Milos Kerkez, Kostas Tsimikas, Ronald Araujo, Jacquet, Chambers.

Midfielders: Florian Wirtz, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Trey Nyoni, James McConnell.

Forwards: Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo, Bradley Barcola, Víctor Muñoz, Lewis Koumas, Rio Ngumoha, Jayden Danns.

Ryan Gravenberch is the notable absentee because of his heel problem.

Gravenberch absence leaves a midfield question

The biggest talking point is undoubtedly Gravenberch’s absence.

Liverpool have had their problems finding the right balance in midfield, and losing another option is far from ideal.

Alexis Mac Allister and Szoboszlai are both included, while Trey Nyoni is another player who could be given an opportunity.

I would be particularly interested to see how Iraola approaches this one. Liverpool need to be more effective at moving the ball forward and supplying their attacking players, and the midfield will have a major responsibility in Turkey.

Hopefully Gravenberch’s heel problem is nothing serious and he will be back available soon.

Plenty of attacking quality travelling

There is certainly no shortage of attacking talent in the squad.

Isak, Gakpo, Barcola and Wirtz are all included, giving Iraola several options when it comes to selecting his front line.

Rio Ngumoha is also travelling, and I would love to see the youngster get some minutes.

He has shown enough ability to suggest he can make an impact at senior level, and these European occasions can be valuable experiences for young players.

Víctor Muñoz is another interesting inclusion, while Koumas and Danns provide further attacking options.

Liverpool need a response after Arsenal defeat

Sunday’s 1-0 defeat against Arsenal was a frustrating afternoon at Anfield, and Liverpool will be desperate to put that disappointment behind them.

The Champions League offers an opportunity to respond, but Fenerbahce will be a difficult opponent, particularly with the atmosphere expected inside their stadium.

Liverpool have made a positive start to their European campaign, and maintaining that momentum is important.

Iraola will need his experienced players to step up, while the younger members of the squad could provide some useful energy from the bench.

There is enough quality in this travelling group to get a result, even without Gravenberch. Now Liverpool need to show it on the pitch.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have reportedly been dealt another injury setback ahead of their Champions League trip to Turkey, with Ryan Gravenberch set to miss Wednesday night’s meeting with Fenerbahce.

The Dutch midfielder is not expected to be part of Andoni Iraola’s travelling squad because of a heel problem.

It is an unwanted development for Liverpool, particularly with the team looking to bounce back from Sunday’s disappointing 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at Anfield.

Gravenberch’s absence could leave Iraola with another decision to make in the middle of the park as Liverpool prepare for a difficult atmosphere in Istanbul.

Another midfield headache for Iraola

Gravenberch has qualities that Liverpool have sometimes lacked this season.

His ability to carry the ball, drive through midfield and help Liverpool progress up the pitch makes him an important option.

He can also provide physical presence and help link the defensive and attacking areas of the team.

Liverpool have struggled at times to get their midfield working consistently, particularly when it comes to supplying the forwards with quality service.

That was one of the biggest frustrations against Arsenal, when Liverpool struggled to create clear-cut opportunities despite having plenty of possession.

Losing Gravenberch, even for one match, is therefore far from ideal.

Who could replace him against Fenerbahce?

Iraola does have alternatives, although the manager will need to decide which combination gives Liverpool the right balance.

Alexis Mac Allister is likely to have an important role, while Dominik Szoboszlai is another option after returning from injury.

Trey Nyoni could also come into the conversation if Iraola wants to give the youngster another opportunity.

Liverpool cannot afford to underestimate Fenerbahce, especially with the match taking place in front of their passionate home support.

The midfield will need to be competitive, disciplined and capable of moving the ball forward quickly.

Hopefully Gravenberch’s problem isn’t serious

The biggest concern now is how long Gravenberch could be unavailable.

At this stage, the information is that he has a heel problem and will miss the Fenerbahce match. There is no confirmed timescale for his return, so Liverpool supporters will be hoping it is only a minor issue.

The last thing Iraola needs is another important midfielder spending time on the sidelines.

Liverpool have already had to manage several injury problems this season, and keeping the key players fit will be crucial as the fixtures continue to come thick and fast.

Liverpool need a response in Turkey

Despite the setback, Liverpool have an opportunity to put the Arsenal defeat behind them.

They have won their opening three Champions League league-phase matches and will want to maintain that perfect record against Fenerbahce.

It won’t be an easy evening, but Liverpool have enough quality in the squad to get the job done.

Gravenberch will be missed, particularly if the heel problem keeps him out for longer than expected.

Hopefully this is just a precautionary absence and we see him back in a Liverpool shirt sooner rather than later.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have spent an enormous amount of money strengthening their attacking options, but something still isn’t working.

On paper, Andoni Iraola has some outstanding attacking players at his disposal. Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola, Cody Gakpo and the exciting Rio Ngumoha should give Liverpool plenty of firepower.

Yet too often, our forwards look isolated, chances are difficult to come by and the team struggles to turn possession into goals.

So what is going wrong?

For me, the biggest problem is sitting behind the attack.

Liverpool’s midfield simply isn’t supplying the forwards with enough quality service.

We can keep questioning the strikers, their finishing and their movement, but how are they supposed to make a difference if the ball isn’t reaching them in dangerous positions?

Our forwards cannot score without the service

Alexander Isak is a striker who thrives on getting the right kind of delivery. He wants the ball played into his feet, passes into space and opportunities to attack the penalty area.

But there have been too many occasions when he has been left waiting for something to happen.

We saw it against Arsenal at Anfield. Liverpool had plenty of possession and attempted 17 shots, but failed to register a single effort on target.

That was the first time Liverpool had finished a Premier League match at Anfield without a shot on target since records began in 2003-04.

It wasn’t simply a case of Isak having a bad afternoon. The entire attacking unit struggled to create anything that genuinely troubled David Raya.

Liverpool were getting into attacking areas, but the quality of the final ball and the decision-making in the final third were nowhere near good enough.

You can have the best striker in the world leading your line, but if the midfield cannot find him, his job becomes incredibly difficult.

Where is the creativity in midfield?

This is where I believe Liverpool need to improve.

We have players capable of controlling possession, but controlling a football match is not the same as creating opportunities.

Liverpool need midfielders who can break defensive lines, play forward quickly, spot runners and deliver passes that put the opposition under pressure.

Too often, the ball goes sideways or backwards when there is an opportunity to play through the middle.

Florian Wirtz is supposed to be one of the players who can unlock defences, and he has shown flashes of his quality. But Liverpool need more consistent creativity from the players around him.

Alexis Mac Allister has the intelligence and passing ability to make things happen, while Dominik Szoboszlai brings energy and the ability to drive forward.

Trey Nyoni has also shown that he can progress the ball and find forward passes.

The problem is that Liverpool need this quality consistently, not just in occasional spells.

Liverpool are missing a proper defensive midfielder too

I’ve said before that Liverpool need more steel in the middle of the park.

I still miss having a player like Fabinho sitting in front of the defence. Someone who could win tackles, break up opposition attacks, protect the back four and give the more creative players the freedom to influence games.

But the midfield problem isn’t only about defensive protection.

Liverpool need a better balance between winning the ball, controlling possession and creating chances.

A proper No.6 would help give the team that platform, but we also need players who are prepared to take responsibility and play those ambitious forward passes.

At the moment, there are too many periods when Liverpool look short of ideas.

The forwards are not completely blameless

I don’t want to suggest that every problem is the midfield’s fault.

The attackers have to take responsibility too.

Isak needs to become more involved in matches, Wirtz needs to turn his influence into more decisive contributions, and Barcola and Gakpo must deliver more consistently in the final third.

When opportunities do arrive, Liverpool need to be more ruthless.

But I don’t believe it is fair to judge the forwards without looking at the service they are receiving.

If your striker spends large parts of a match chasing scraps, you cannot expect him to produce goals out of nothing.

The best attacking teams create opportunities for their forwards rather than relying on individual brilliance every week.

Iraola needs to find the right midfield combination

This is one of the biggest challenges facing Iraola.

He has inherited an expensive attacking squad, but he needs to build the midfield that allows those players to perform.

Nyoni deserves consideration after showing his ability to move the ball forward, while Wirtz needs players around him who can support his creativity.

Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have important qualities, but the manager needs to find the right combination and give the team a better balance.

Liverpool also need to be braver in possession. There is no point dominating the ball if the opposition can sit comfortably behind it without being seriously threatened.

Sometimes we need to take risks, play through the lines and get the ball into the feet of our attacking players much quicker.

Liverpool’s attack needs fixing – but the midfield is where I’d start

I don’t believe Liverpool suddenly have a poor group of forwards.

There is too much quality in this squad for the attacking performances to continue looking so frustrating.

But quality players need the right platform, and that is where Liverpool are falling short.

For me, the midfield is not creating enough, not progressing the ball quickly enough and not supplying the forwards with the service they need.

I would rather see Liverpool address that problem than immediately start questioning whether their expensive attacking signings are good enough.

Iraola has plenty of work to do, and I still believe this squad is a work in progress.

But if Liverpool want Isak, Wirtz, Barcola and the rest of the attacking players to deliver consistently, they must give them the ammunition.

You cannot expect your strikers to fire if the midfield isn’t supplying the bullets.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool appear to be keeping a close eye on the left-back market, and another name has emerged as a potential target for Andoni Iraola.

According to Senegalese journalist Khadim Diakhaté, Liverpool have made contact with the representatives of Brentford defender El Hadji Malick Diouf as they explore the possibility of bringing the Senegal international to Anfield.

Chelsea are also reportedly interested, with both clubs said to have approached the player’s representatives ahead of a possible move next summer.

There is no agreement in place, and Liverpool have not submitted a confirmed bid, but it is certainly a transfer rumour worth watching.

Who is El Hadji Malick Diouf?

Diouf is a 21-year-old Senegal international who operates at left-back and can also provide attacking quality further forward.

He joined Brentford from West Ham last summer after previously impressing at Slavia Prague. His move to the Bees was reported to be worth around £35 million plus add-ons.

He has quickly attracted attention since arriving at Brentford, with his energy, pace and ability to contribute going forward making him an interesting prospect.

For a modern full-back, those attacking qualities are particularly important. Liverpool need players who can provide width, support the wingers and deliver quality into the penalty area, while still being capable of doing their defensive work.

Diouf certainly appears to have the profile to interest Liverpool’s recruitment team.

Liverpool’s left-back situation needs attention

I’ve made my feelings clear about Liverpool’s left-back position.

Milos Kerkez has shown flashes of quality, but I still want to see more consistency from him. He deserves time to develop, particularly after the pressure of arriving at Anfield, but Liverpool cannot afford to ignore the position if they believe an upgrade or additional competition is required.

Konstantinos Tsimikas also leaves questions about whether Liverpool have enough quality and depth in that area.

I would like to see the club bring in another left-back who can genuinely challenge for a starting place rather than simply provide cover.

Diouf could offer something different, particularly with his attacking energy and potential to develop further.

Brentford won’t want to lose him so soon

One complication is that Diouf has only recently joined Brentford.

The Bees invested heavily to bring him to the club, and they will have little reason to make a quick decision about selling him unless an attractive offer arrives.

Liverpool could also face competition from Chelsea, who are reportedly monitoring the Senegalese defender.

The latest reports point towards a possible move next summer rather than an immediate January transfer. That gives Liverpool time to assess his progress and decide whether he is the right player for Iraola’s plans.

Contacting an agent is an indication of interest, not confirmation that a transfer is close.

Could Diouf be the answer at left-back?

I would certainly be interested in seeing Liverpool pursue this one.

The club need to make sure they have enough quality in both full-back positions, and I don’t believe they should be afraid to strengthen if they feel the current options are not quite good enough.

Diouf is young, has Premier League experience and appears to have plenty of room to improve. Those are attractive qualities for a club planning beyond the immediate transfer window.

However, Liverpool must do their homework. Brentford paid a substantial fee for him, and any potential deal would need to make financial sense.

For me, the important thing is that Liverpool recognise the need to strengthen the left side of their defence. If Diouf is someone Iraola and the recruitment team believe can improve the squad, then he is certainly worth considering.

Liverpool have reportedly made their move by contacting his representatives. Now we wait to see whether that interest develops into something more serious.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool supporters were left furious after Sunday’s 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, and now a former refereeing chief has added his voice to the growing criticism of Andy Madley.

Keith Hackett, the former head of PGMOL and an experienced former FIFA referee, has questioned why Madley was given such a high-profile Premier League fixture in the first place.

And his comments are pretty damning.

Hackett believes referees who are performing well should be given the biggest matches, and he has suggested Madley should not be appointed to a Premier League game next weekend.

For Liverpool supporters, this will certainly add fuel to an already heated debate about what happened at Anfield.

Former PGMOL chief questions Madley’s appointment

Madley was appointed to referee Liverpool’s meeting with Arsenal despite not having taken charge of a Premier League match between two traditional Big Six clubs for two and a half years.

That made the appointment an interesting one before a ball had even been kicked.

Unfortunately, the game ended with several controversial incidents, most notably the failure to award Liverpool a penalty after Jurrien Timber pulled Alexander Isak’s shirt inside the Arsenal penalty area.

Hackett was surprised that Madley had been selected for the occasion.

Speaking to Football Insider, he said:

“I was surprised, having watched his recent performances, that Andy Madley was appointed to this game.

“We have elite referees within the group. We have a pecking order, and those referees that are in form should get this game.”

Those are strong words from someone who knows the refereeing system from the inside.

Hackett believes Madley should miss next weekend’s fixtures

It was his next comments, however, that really caught my attention.

Hackett continued by explaining that referees who are not performing consistently should be challenged about their standards.

He added:

“There are going to be knocks on the door saying, ‘Boss, why haven’t I got a game?’ And I would be saying, ‘You need to improve your performance and be more consistent’.”

He then delivered his verdict on Madley’s performance:

“I don’t think he had his best game, and I don’t know what his best game is. We’ve highlighted a number of ifs, and I’ve highlighted one that is 100% incorrect.

“That says to me, next week if I was doing the appointments, he ain’t got a game.”

That is a fairly remarkable assessment.

Hackett is not simply suggesting Madley made one mistake. He is questioning the decision to appoint him to such an important fixture and believes his performance should have consequences.

The Isak penalty decision remains the biggest talking point

There is little doubt about which incident will dominate the discussion among Liverpool supporters.

Isak was attempting to attack a cross when Timber grabbed his shirt, preventing him from reaching the ball as he wanted.

Madley did not award a penalty, and VAR official Stuart Attwell did not recommend an on-field review.

It was the decision that left Liverpool furious.

Iraola was particularly unhappy afterwards, even suggesting that he would tell his players to go down in similar situations in future because staying on their feet does not appear to help them.

Virgil van Dijk also questioned how the incident could have been missed when so many camera angles were available.

Liverpool ultimately lost 1-0, with Kai Havertz’s first-half goal proving decisive.

We will never know whether Liverpool would have scored from the penalty spot, but it was certainly a major moment in the match.

Liverpool need consistency, not apologies after the event

I don’t believe Liverpool should use refereeing decisions to disguise their own shortcomings.

The performance against Arsenal was not good enough in the final third, and Alisson’s mistake played a major part in the defeat.

But that does not mean the officials should escape scrutiny.

The whole point of VAR is to help correct important mistakes. When a decision as significant as the Isak shirt pull is left untouched, supporters are entitled to ask questions.

And when a former refereeing chief is publicly questioning the appointment and suggesting the referee should be dropped for the following weekend, it shows that the criticism is not coming exclusively from Liverpool fans.

Of course, Hackett’s comments are his own assessment. They do not mean Madley will automatically be removed from the next round of fixtures.

But they do raise an important question about how refereeing appointments are made and whether performances are being judged consistently.

My verdict: The pressure is now on the refereeing authorities

Liverpool have every right to feel aggrieved about the Isak incident.

I raised concerns about Madley’s appointment before the game, and unfortunately, the match produced another major refereeing talking point involving Liverpool.

Now Keith Hackett has questioned why Madley was selected and believes he should miss next weekend’s fixtures.

That is a significant intervention from a former refereeing chief.

I want to see officials held to the same standards as players and managers. If a player has a poor performance, he can lose his place. If a manager makes repeated mistakes, his position comes under pressure.

Why should referees be treated any differently?

Liverpool cannot change the result against Arsenal, but the authorities need to explain how such an important decision was allowed to stand.

The debate surrounding Andy Madley is not going away anytime soon.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)