The Kopite View

There is some excellent news for Liverpool supporters, with Alisson Becker making it clear that his preference is to remain at Anfield beyond the end of this season.

The Brazilian goalkeeper has been linked with a possible departure, with his current contract due to expire next summer. However, his latest comments should give Liverpool fans plenty of encouragement.

Speaking to the BBC after Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace, Alisson was asked whether he wanted to stay.

His response was exactly what supporters wanted to hear.

“Yes [I want to stay], in my mind. I’m focused on playing every game but in my mind I’m happy to stay.”

He continued:

“That depends on a lot of aspects and different situations. But my will is to stay – I’m happy here and my family is happy here.

“I’m still hungry for titles and to delivering good performances. I still want to play at the top level for as long as I can, so that’s my thinking.”

There is no ambiguity about his personal preference. Alisson wants to remain a Liverpool player.

Alisson has earned the right to decide his future

I would absolutely love to see Alisson stay at Liverpool.

Since arriving from Roma in 2018, he has established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers ever to wear the famous red shirt.

He has been instrumental in Liverpool winning the Premier League, Champions League and other major trophies. His contribution over the years has been enormous.

We sometimes take his quality for granted, but when you look at the number of important saves he has produced in big matches, it becomes obvious just how valuable he has been.

Sunday’s performance against Crystal Palace was another reminder.

Liverpool were not completely comfortable defensively, particularly during the first half, and Alisson produced several important saves to keep the opposition at bay.

His stops against Daichi Kamada, Adam Wharton and Yeremy Pino were particularly important.

Without those interventions, the outcome could have been very different.

He may have made mistakes in the defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, but one difficult week should never erase everything he has done for this football club.

His agent is already speaking to Liverpool

There is another encouraging development.

Alisson confirmed that although he has not personally held contract discussions with the club, his agent is speaking with Liverpool.

That suggests conversations about his future are taking place, although no new agreement has been announced.

Andoni Iraola has previously made it clear that he would like Alisson to remain at Anfield, so there appears to be a willingness on both sides.

Of course, Liverpool must consider the financial implications and their longer-term goalkeeping plans.

Giorgi Mamardashvili is waiting for opportunities, while young goalkeeper Lucca Brughmans is also expected to arrive from Genk next summer.

But having competition for the No.1 position should not mean Liverpool automatically allow one of their best players to leave.

Liverpool need experience as well as young talent

One thing I keep coming back to is the experience currently available in this Liverpool squad.

We have already seen senior figures move on, and there is a danger of losing too much leadership in a relatively short period.

Virgil van Dijk’s future is also a major consideration, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.

Losing both Alisson and Van Dijk next summer would leave Liverpool with some enormous gaps to fill.

Young players need experienced teammates around them, particularly while Iraola is trying to build a new team and establish his own identity.

Alisson brings more than outstanding goalkeeping ability. He understands the demands of playing for Liverpool, knows what it takes to win major trophies and has experienced the biggest occasions in the game.

That experience is incredibly valuable.

My verdict: Give Alisson another contract

I understand Liverpool have to plan for the future, and nobody can play at the highest level forever.

But I don’t believe the club should be in a hurry to move Alisson on.

If he continues producing performances like the one against Palace, I would have no hesitation in offering him another contract.

Perhaps a one-year extension with an option for a further season would make sense, allowing Liverpool to manage the transition while retaining one of the best goalkeepers in their history.

Alisson has made his feelings clear. He is happy at Liverpool, his family are happy on Merseyside and he still wants to compete for the biggest trophies.

That is exactly the attitude we want from our senior players.

Liverpool should do everything reasonable to keep him at Anfield. We have already lost enough experience, and I certainly don’t want to see Alisson become another player we regret allowing to leave.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

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Andoni Iraola is understandably worried about Dominik Szoboszlai’s fitness after revealing the midfielder finished Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace with a knee that was not 100 per cent.

And judging by the Liverpool manager’s comments, he would much rather see his influential midfielder given time to recover than risk making the problem worse while representing Hungary.

The international break has arrived at an awkward time for Liverpool. After finally getting back to winning ways at Selhurst Park, the last thing Iraola needs is another injury setback.

Szoboszlai was visibly struggling during the first half against Palace, receiving treatment on his knee before eventually being substituted in the 69th minute.

He had played on after the initial concern, but Iraola has now admitted that his condition needs careful assessment.

Iraola is clearly worried about international duty

The Liverpool manager did not hide his frustration when asked about the situation.

He said:

“The last thing we need now is to lose players in international games. Last time in the international break, we lost three players, three very important players.”

That is a reference to the previous international break, when Liverpool lost Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai to injury problems.

Iraola knows just how damaging another repeat could be.

Liverpool have already had to manage injuries and changes to their starting XI, and the squad needs some stability if they are going to build on the Palace victory.

When asked whether Szoboszlai would join Hungary, Iraola added:

“I know he will do everything to go because he loves to play with the national team. But he was not 100 per cent now when he finished the game.”

He then delivered the comment that caught my attention:

“I know what I want, but I also have to understand the national teams.”

I think we can read between the lines there.

Iraola would clearly prefer Szoboszlai not to take unnecessary risks, but he also understands the player’s commitment to Hungary and the importance of international football.

Liverpool need their midfield engine fit

There is no question that Szoboszlai is an important player for Liverpool.

His energy, work rate and ability to cover ground give the midfield something different. Even when his performances have been questioned, his physical contribution and willingness to keep working are valuable.

Liverpool need competition and better balance in midfield, but losing Szoboszlai for another extended period would be a significant setback.

The encouraging thing is that Iraola has not suggested a serious injury has been diagnosed. He explained that Szoboszlai had extended his knee and was able to continue, although he was not completely comfortable.

The medical staff will need to assess him before any decision is made.

We should not jump to conclusions about how long he might be out.

Trey Nyoni could be handed another opportunity

If Szoboszlai is unavailable, Trey Nyoni could benefit from another opportunity.

The teenager has been impressive in recent appearances and came on for Szoboszlai against Palace.

I have been calling for Liverpool to give Nyoni more opportunities because he offers qualities that have been missing from the midfield.

However, this is another reason why Liverpool need to manage their young players carefully. Nyoni should be given opportunities because he deserves them, not because the senior squad is constantly being weakened by injuries.

Iraola needs options, and hopefully Szoboszlai’s problem is only minor.

The Manchester United game is looming

Liverpool now have an important period ahead, with Manchester United visiting Anfield on November 22.

After the defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, the Palace victory was exactly what the team needed.

The last thing we want is to return from the international break with another injury crisis.

Szoboszlai needs to be assessed properly, and if he is not fit enough to represent Hungary, I hope everyone involved makes the sensible decision.

International football is important, and I understand why players want to represent their countries. But Liverpool also have a responsibility to protect their players, particularly when they are already carrying an injury concern.

My verdict: Let Szoboszlai recover properly

Iraola’s comments suggest he is not particularly keen on seeing Szoboszlai risk his fitness over the next fortnight.

I don’t blame him.

Liverpool have already lost three important players during an international break, and we cannot afford another situation where players return injured just as the season is reaching another important stage.

If Szoboszlai is fit, he should be available for Hungary. If he isn’t, there should be no pressure to play.

The most important thing is having him fit and ready for Liverpool’s next fixtures.

Iraola knows what he wants. Hopefully the medical assessment gives him the answer he is looking for.

By Jamie
(The Kopite View)

Liverpool could save themselves a fortune in the transfer market if Emile Heskey is right about Trey Nyoni.

With Manchester City reportedly spending around £155m on Elliot Anderson and Tottenham committing approximately £133m to Sandro Tonali, the cost of recruiting a top-quality midfielder is becoming frightening.

But Heskey believes Liverpool might already have the answer to their long-standing No.6 problem sitting in their own dressing room.

And I have to say, there is certainly an argument worth listening to.

Nyoni could unlock Mac Allister and Gravenberch

Heskey’s argument isn’t simply about saving £100m. It’s about getting the best out of the midfielders Liverpool already have.

He believes Nyoni can occupy the deeper position, allowing Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch to operate further forward.

His reasoning is that both players could then use their energy more aggressively, helping Nyoni defensively while contributing more in the attacking areas.

I have been saying for some time that Liverpool need a better-balanced midfield.

Gravenberch has been used in the holding role, but I don’t believe that is necessarily where you get the best out of him. He is much more suited to carrying the ball, driving forward and influencing games further up the pitch.

Mac Allister also has the technical quality and intelligence to contribute higher up the field.

The problem has been finding somebody capable of giving them the freedom to do that.

Could Nyoni be that player?

What makes Nyoni different?

One of the most encouraging aspects of Nyoni’s game is his willingness to play forward.

Liverpool have been criticised for moving the ball too slowly, playing too many sideways passes and failing to provide their forwards with enough quality service.

Nyoni offers something different.

He is comfortable receiving possession under pressure, moving the ball quickly and attempting passes that break opposition lines.

Heskey acknowledges that the youngster is still slight physically and isn’t yet a natural ball-winner. That is an important limitation, particularly in a position where defensive responsibility is enormous.

But he also recognises that Nyoni has qualities Liverpool have been missing.

He doesn’t need to be a finished product at 19. He needs to keep developing, improve his defensive awareness and learn how to control games from that position.

The ability to progress possession is already there.

We must not make the same mistake as Bajcetic

This is where I would urge a little caution.

Liverpool supporters are understandably excited about Nyoni, but we have been here before with Stefan Bajcetic.

He burst onto the scene, looked like he could become an important part of Liverpool’s midfield and was suddenly being asked to shoulder enormous responsibility at a young age.

His subsequent injury problems were a reminder of how quickly things can change.

Nyoni is only 19. We cannot expect him to play every week, carry the midfield and solve a problem that Liverpool have failed to address properly in the transfer market.

There is a difference between giving a youngster opportunities and making him responsible for fixing the entire team.

I want to see Nyoni playing regularly, but I also want Liverpool to protect his development.

Liverpool still need to consider the transfer market

Heskey’s suggestion shouldn’t automatically mean Liverpool abandon their search for a midfielder.

I would love Nyoni to establish himself as the long-term answer, but Liverpool still need options and competition.

If he becomes the player Heskey believes he can be, that is fantastic news for the club. It would allow Mac Allister and Gravenberch to play in more suitable positions and potentially save Liverpool an enormous transfer fee.

But we need to be realistic about the defensive side of his game.

Liverpool have been crying out for a midfielder who can protect the defence, win duels, cover ground and help the team control the middle of the pitch.

Nyoni has some of the qualities needed to develop into that player, but he is not the finished article yet.

The club must decide whether they believe he can grow into the role with the right support or whether an experienced signing is still required.

My verdict: Give Nyoni the opportunity, but don’t put the weight of the world on his shoulders

I like Heskey’s thinking.

Liverpool have spent extraordinary amounts of money on attacking talent, including Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola, yet the balance of the midfield remains a major talking point.

If Nyoni can become the player who allows Mac Allister and Gravenberch to play further forward, it could transform the way Liverpool operate.

But I would still like to see another quality midfielder brought in. Not necessarily for a ridiculous fee, but somebody with the physicality, defensive awareness and experience to give Iraola another option.

Nyoni could be a huge part of Liverpool’s future. We shouldn’t block his pathway by spending money unnecessarily, but neither should we gamble his development by expecting too much too soon.

The best outcome would be Nyoni establishing himself as Liverpool’s long-term No.6, with an experienced midfielder helping him get there.

Saving £100m would be brilliant. Building a midfield that finally works would be even better.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

There are moments in a player’s Liverpool career when things just seem to click. Could Florian Wirtz have experienced one of those moments at Selhurst Park?

The German international produced arguably his most influential performance in a Liverpool shirt as Andoni Iraola’s side secured a much-needed 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

Wirtz scored his first Premier League goal of the season, provided the assist for Alexander Isak’s late strike and looked far more confident and influential in the attacking areas.

After the criticism and scrutiny he has faced, this was exactly the sort of performance Liverpool supporters have been waiting for.

And perhaps, more importantly, it could give him the confidence to kick on.

The goal was important, but the overall performance mattered more

Wirtz’s goal in the 54th minute was beautifully worked. He played the ball into the space for Bradley Barcola before continuing his run into the penalty area and finishing the resulting cross.

It was a simple but important reminder of what he can offer.

He wasn’t standing around waiting for the ball. He was making intelligent movements, getting into dangerous positions and looking to influence the game.

His involvement in Isak’s goal was another positive, showing the creativity and awareness that made Liverpool so keen to bring him to Anfield.

This is the Wirtz Liverpool need to see more regularly.

Iraola’s instructions could be making a difference

One interesting detail from the Palace victory was Wirtz’s explanation of the manager’s instructions.

He revealed that Iraola had been encouraging the attacking players to get more bodies into the penalty area.

That might sound straightforward, but it is important.

Liverpool have had too many occasions this season when their centre-forward has looked isolated, with insufficient support arriving from midfield and the attacking positions.

Against Palace, Wirtz was getting into the box and taking up positions where he could actually hurt the opposition.

Perhaps this is part of the solution to getting the best out of him.

Iraola clearly believes in Wirtz, and the German now needs to repay that faith with consistent performances.

We have to give him time, but expectations are high

Nobody should pretend Wirtz has suddenly solved all of Liverpool’s problems.

He has endured difficult spells, and there have been legitimate questions about whether the team has been getting enough from such an expensive signing.

But there are also mitigating circumstances.

Liverpool have struggled for consistency, the midfield balance hasn’t always been right and the attacking players have not been receiving the service they need.

Wirtz is a creative footballer who needs movement around him, options ahead of him and teammates making runs into dangerous areas.

He cannot be expected to manufacture everything himself.

That doesn’t mean he should escape criticism, though. At his price, Liverpool need him to become a player who regularly decides important matches.

One good performance is a start, not the finished article.

The Manchester United game is another opportunity

The timing of this performance is particularly encouraging with Manchester United due at Anfield after the international break.

There could hardly be a better opportunity for Wirtz to build on his display against Palace.

Liverpool need players who can unlock stubborn defences, create chances and make the difference in the biggest matches.

Wirtz has the technical ability to do all of those things. We have seen glimpses of it, but now we need to see it consistently.

I would love to see him take the confidence from Selhurst Park into that game and make himself the difference-maker Liverpool expected when they signed him.

My verdict: This could be the beginning of something

I’m not going to get carried away after one performance, but I am encouraged.

Wirtz scoring his first Premier League goal, setting up Isak and looking more comfortable in the attacking areas is a significant positive.

Iraola needs to build a team that gets the best out of his creativity, while Wirtz needs to keep producing performances that justify the investment.

Liverpool have a special talent on their hands if they can get everything working around him.

The criticism won’t disappear overnight, but perhaps the Palace victory is the moment Wirtz needed to get his Liverpool career moving in the right direction.

Could this finally be the turning point for Florian Wirtz at Anfield? I certainly hope so.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

It looks increasingly likely that Kostas Tsimikas’ Liverpool career is coming to an end.

According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Liverpool have no plans to renew the Greek international’s contract, which expires at the end of the season, with Andoni Iraola reportedly unimpressed by his performances.

And I have to say, I am not particularly surprised.

I’ve been saying for some time that Tsimikas isn’t good enough to be Liverpool’s long-term solution at left-back. He has had opportunities to establish himself, but too often his performances have left me wanting more.

If Iraola has reached the same conclusion, then Liverpool need to start planning for the summer now.

Iraola has apparently seen enough

Tsimikas returned to Liverpool last summer following his loan spell at Roma, with Andy Robertson departing and an opportunity opening up to provide competition and cover for Milos Kerkez.

It was a chance for the 30-year-old to demonstrate that he still had an important role to play at Anfield.

However, according to Football Insider, his performances have failed to convince Iraola.

The report claims there have been no contract extension talks and Liverpool are now preparing for the possibility of him leaving on a free transfer next summer.

Tsimikas has made nine appearances in all competitions this season and registered three assists, so he hasn’t contributed nothing going forward.

But being a Liverpool defender requires more than occasionally producing a decent delivery. You need consistency, defensive awareness and the ability to cope with the demands of playing for a club competing at the highest level.

That is where I believe Tsimikas has fallen short.

Liverpool need to sort out the left-back position

The bigger issue is that Tsimikas isn’t the only question mark at left-back.

Kerkez has also struggled for consistency since arriving at Anfield. There is a talented player in there, and I still believe Iraola can get much more out of him, particularly given their previous working relationship at Bournemouth.

But Liverpool cannot simply assume everything will be fine.

If Tsimikas leaves, the club need another reliable option who can challenge Kerkez for the starting position rather than just provide occasional cover.

I would much rather see Liverpool recruit a genuinely high-quality left-back than keep relying on players who have failed to convince.

We have already seen how important a strong full-back can be to the way Liverpool play. It is a position that needs proper attention.

Could Luke Chambers get an opportunity?

There is also the possibility of giving Luke Chambers more opportunities.

The young defender has been around the first-team squad and has impressed during previous opportunities to show what he can do.

I would certainly like to see him given a chance when the circumstances allow.

However, I wouldn’t put the responsibility for solving Liverpool’s left-back problem entirely on a young player. He needs opportunities to develop, but the club still need to recruit quality and experience.

Competition is essential, and nobody should be guaranteed a starting place.

My verdict: Time for Liverpool to move on

I appreciate what Tsimikas has contributed during his time at Liverpool. He has been part of successful squads and has had some memorable moments in a red shirt.

But football is about making decisions at the right time.

If Iraola doesn’t believe he is good enough to take Liverpool forward, there is little point offering him another contract simply for the sake of keeping a familiar face around the squad.

The club need to be ruthless when it comes to improving the team.

I have been calling for a new left-back for a while, and this latest report suggests Liverpool are finally preparing to make that move.

Letting Tsimikas leave would be one decision. Replacing him with someone genuinely good enough to improve Liverpool is the important one.

And while Kerkez deserves time to find his best form, he needs competition rather than another season of uncertainty at left-back.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Now this is a statistic Liverpool supporters will absolutely love!

Manchester United’s trip to Anfield on November 22 could be a piece of history, with the Old Trafford club facing the prospect of visiting their biggest rivals while sitting in the Premier League relegation zone.

Remarkably, this would be the first time United have played Liverpool at Anfield in a league fixture while occupying a relegation position since March 1937.

That’s nearly 90 years ago!

I don’t think even the most optimistic Liverpool supporter could have predicted that Manchester United would be in this sort of position.

Back to March 1937 – United were bottom of the league

The last time this happened was on March 27, 1937.

Liverpool welcomed Manchester United to Anfield with the visitors sitting bottom of the First Division, in 22nd place.

Liverpool weren’t exactly flying themselves, sitting 17th, but they still managed to take all three points with a 2-0 victory.

Alf Hanson opened the scoring after 23 minutes before Fred Howe sealed the win in the final minute.

United eventually suffered relegation that season.

It is quite incredible to think that we have to go back that far to find the last time Manchester United arrived at Anfield in the league while sitting in the relegation zone.

What has happened to Manchester United?

United’s current situation is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

A club that once dominated English football is now fighting to get itself away from the bottom end of the Premier League table.

Their recent run of results has been dreadful, and there are serious questions about the direction of the club.

They have gone nine league matches without a victory, their longest such run since 1984, and former manager Erik ten Hag has even warned that relegation is a genuine possibility.

For a club of Manchester United’s size, that is an extraordinary situation.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are looking to build under Andoni Iraola, and Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace has provided some much-needed confidence after two defeats.

November 22 – Anfield awaits!

The next meeting between these two historic rivals takes place on Sunday November 22, with a 4.30pm kick-off at Anfield.

Liverpool will know that league position means very little when these two clubs meet. Manchester United will undoubtedly be desperate to put things right, and we should never underestimate them in this fixture.

But there is no reason Liverpool shouldn’t be targeting three points.

Anfield should be rocking, and the Reds need to take advantage of United’s struggles.

I would absolutely love to see Liverpool turn up, put in a dominant performance and send our biggest rivals home with another miserable afternoon to remember.

My verdict: What a time to be a Liverpool supporter!

We have witnessed Manchester United spend fortunes, change managers and promise supporters that better days are coming.

Yet here we are, approaching a Liverpool versus Manchester United match with the visitors potentially arriving in the relegation zone for the first time in almost 90 years.

Football really does have a sense of humour!

Of course, we still have to do our job on the pitch. I don’t want Liverpool getting carried away with United’s problems or believing the points are already secured.

But imagine the atmosphere at Anfield if Liverpool can take advantage of this situation.

Let’s make sure November 22 is remembered for all the right reasons. Three points against Manchester United would make it a very happy afternoon indeed!

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Sometimes three points are worth considerably more than just their value in the Premier League table.

Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park was one of those occasions.

After two disappointing defeats in the space of a few days against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, Andoni Iraola’s side desperately needed a response.

Another poor result would have increased the pressure, brought more questions about the manager and left supporters wondering where the next victory was coming from.

Thankfully, Liverpool delivered when it mattered.

Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak secured an important away win and, perhaps just as importantly, restored some confidence.

The pressure was building after two defeats

Losing 1-0 at home to Arsenal was frustrating enough, particularly given the controversy surrounding the penalty appeal for Alexander Isak.

But the defeat in Istanbul against Fenerbahçe was even more concerning.

Liverpool scored twice through Trey Nyoni and Isak, yet somehow managed to concede three goals from set-pieces and leave Turkey empty-handed.

That was a sobering experience.

There were questions about the team’s organisation, concentration, squad depth and the ability to see out matches.

I have been saying that Liverpool are a work in progress under Iraola and that supporters need to be patient. However, patience doesn’t mean accepting poor performances without demanding improvement.

The players had to take responsibility, and today’s match was an opportunity to show that they understood what was expected.

A response when Liverpool needed it most

Selhurst Park is never an easy place to visit, and Palace were certainly capable of making life uncomfortable.

Liverpool weren’t perfect, particularly during the first half, but there was a greater sense of purpose about their attacking play.

Mac Allister’s header just before half-time was crucial. It gave Liverpool the lead at exactly the right moment and allowed them to approach the second half with greater confidence.

Wirtz then doubled the advantage with his first Premier League goal of the season, before Isak added a third late on.

Those goals were important individually, but collectively they showed what this Liverpool attack can produce when the players combine with greater quality.

There was also a much-needed contribution from Wirtz, who has faced criticism recently. Getting that first league goal should do his confidence the world of good.

And Isak continues to show why Liverpool invested so heavily in him.

Iraola deserves backing – but he needs results too

I remain convinced that Andoni Iraola is the right man to take Liverpool forward.

However, I have never suggested that he should be immune from criticism.

He has inherited a squad with problems that won’t disappear overnight, and I believe Liverpool are further away from challenging consistently than some supporters would like to admit.

There is work to do in midfield, improvements needed defensively and questions about the depth of certain positions.

But changing managers every time results become difficult isn’t the answer.

I wanted Arne Slot removed because I believed the direction of the team had become a problem. I don’t want Liverpool making the same mistake by judging Iraola after a difficult spell while he is trying to rebuild.

What I do want is progress, better performances and players showing the commitment required to wear that shirt.

Today’s victory was a step in the right direction.

Three points could give Liverpool some momentum

The most important thing now is making sure this isn’t just a one-off response.

Liverpool cannot afford to follow a good result with another disappointing performance. Consistency is what separates successful teams from those who spend the season chasing their own mistakes.

I would also like to see Iraola continue trusting younger players such as Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha. They offer energy and enthusiasm, and the manager needs to build a squad where places are earned rather than guaranteed.

There are still plenty of questions to answer, but winning away from home after two defeats is a much better starting point than another week of frustration.

My verdict: This was more than just three points

I’m delighted with today’s result.

Not because it suddenly makes Liverpool title contenders, or because all the problems have disappeared, but because the players showed the character needed after a difficult week.

Two defeats could easily have become three, and the pressure surrounding Iraola would have increased considerably.

Instead, Liverpool have responded with a 3-1 victory, three different goalscorers and some encouraging attacking performances.

We need to keep our feet on the ground. This squad still needs strengthening, and Iraola needs time to build the team he wants.

But today’s result matters.

Liverpool needed a win, Iraola needed a response and the supporters needed something to smile about. We got all three.

Now let’s build on it.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

I honestly cannot get my head around the penalty awarded against Liverpool in the closing stages of the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace.

Two players go up for a header. Both make an attempt to win the ball. One gets there first, wins the header and naturally follows through with his movement.

There is contact between the players, and suddenly it’s a penalty against Liverpool.

What exactly is Milos Kerkez supposed to do? Stay on the ground and allow his opponent to win the header?

And here we go again. Another penalty awarded against Liverpool, while at the other end we seem to be unable to buy one!

Are players no longer allowed to challenge for headers?

This is what frustrates me about decisions like this.

Kerkez went up to compete for the ball. He didn’t appear to deliberately attack an opponent or make a reckless challenge.

There was an aerial contest, contact followed and the referee decided it was a penalty.

But if one player wins a header and their natural follow-through brings them into contact with an opponent, does that automatically become a foul?

I don’t think so.

If Kerkez had made a dangerous or reckless challenge, I would have no problem accepting the decision. But from what I saw, this looked like two players competing for the same ball.

Another penalty against us – when do we actually get one?

This is the bigger frustration for Liverpool supporters.

We seem to see penalties awarded against us, yet when our own players are pulled, held or brought down in the opposition box, we’re left wondering what more needs to happen.

The Alexander Isak incident against Arsenal is a perfect example. Jurrien Timber pulled Isak’s shirt as he tried to reach a cross, but Liverpool weren’t awarded a penalty.

Virgil van Dijk was understandably furious afterwards, and Andoni Iraola questioned the consistency of the officiating.

Now we have another penalty given against Liverpool following an aerial challenge.

I’m not asking referees to favour Liverpool. I’m asking for the same rules to be applied at both ends of the pitch.

If that’s a penalty against Kerkez, then supporters quite rightly want to know why similar contact involving Liverpool players doesn’t receive the same scrutiny.

VAR needs to be consistent

This is precisely why supporters are becoming increasingly frustrated with VAR.

We are constantly told that officials are looking for clear and obvious errors, but the level of intervention seems to vary from one incident to another.

Liverpool cannot keep being on the wrong end of decisions that leave supporters scratching their heads.

The penalty didn’t change the outcome at Selhurst Park, with Liverpool winning 3-1 thanks to goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.

But that doesn’t mean the decision should simply be brushed aside.

My verdict: Let players compete!

I’m delighted with the three points, and the performance was exactly the response Liverpool needed after defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe.

But I still cannot understand how that aerial challenge was deemed a penalty.

Two players jump. Both attempt to win the ball. One gets there first and follows through with his movement.

Is that automatically a foul?

Football is a contact sport. Players should be allowed to compete for headers without every collision being treated as an infringement.

And while we’re at it, I’d quite like to see Liverpool awarded a penalty for a change!

Another penalty against us, yet when we have genuine appeals at the other end, we’re left empty-handed. Where is the consistency?

I don’t want favours. I just want the same rules, the same scrutiny and the same standards for everybody.

Is that really too much to ask?

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Liverpool have finally got the response they desperately needed.

After two disappointing defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, Andoni Iraola’s side travelled to Selhurst Park knowing that anything other than a positive result would increase the pressure.

Thankfully, the Reds delivered.

Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak secured a deserved 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace, giving Liverpool three important Premier League points and something to build on heading into the international break.

It wasn’t entirely comfortable, particularly during the first half, but there were plenty of positives to take from this performance.

Most importantly, Liverpool showed a much-needed clinical edge.

Mac Allister gives Liverpool the breakthrough

Liverpool started with Alisson in goal, Ronald Araujo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk and Milos Kerkez in defence, while Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai formed the midfield partnership.

Cody Gakpo, Wirtz and Bradley Barcola supported Isak in attack.

The visitors had to work for their opening goal, with Palace creating some dangerous moments of their own.

Yéremy Pino struck the crossbar and Alisson was called into action to make important saves. Jørgen Strand Larsen also thought he had found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

Liverpool needed to take advantage of their own opportunities, and they finally made the breakthrough in the 40th minute.

Szoboszlai delivered a dangerous free-kick and Mac Allister rose to head the ball into the net.

It was a massive goal at an important moment, giving Liverpool a 1-0 lead heading into half-time.

Wirtz finally gets his Premier League goal!

Liverpool doubled their advantage shortly after the restart, and it was a moment that will hopefully give Florian Wirtz a huge confidence boost.

The German finished brilliantly in the 54th minute after a low cross from Barcola.

It was an excellent attacking move, with Barcola providing the quality and Wirtz showing the composure to finish.

There has been plenty of discussion about Wirtz’s performances and his need to deliver more in the final third.

Getting his first Premier League goal of the season is an important step.

Hopefully, this is the beginning of a much more productive spell for him in a Liverpool shirt.

Isak puts the game beyond Palace

Liverpool continued to threaten as the game progressed, and Isak eventually got his reward.

The Swedish striker had missed a big opportunity shortly before finding the net, but he made no mistake when another chance arrived.

Wirtz was involved again, setting up Isak to finish in the 89th minute and make it 3-0.

That was a particularly important moment for Isak.

Iraola has spoken about the need to get his striker into the right positions, and this was a reminder of what can happen when Liverpool provide him with the opportunities.

He now has eight goals this season, and Liverpool need to keep supplying him with quality service.

Eddie Nketiah converted a stoppage-time penalty after Kerkez was penalised for a late challenge, but it was too little, too late for Palace.

The final score was 3-1.

Alisson provides the foundation

While the goalscorers will understandably receive plenty of attention, Alisson deserves considerable credit.

Palace had opportunities, particularly before the break, and the Brazilian produced some important interventions to protect Liverpool’s advantage.

It was another reminder of how valuable he remains to this team.

Liverpool cannot expect their goalkeeper to rescue them every week, but having Alisson behind them provides enormous reassurance.

A much-needed response from Iraola’s Liverpool

I have been backing Iraola despite the recent setbacks, and this is exactly the sort of response I wanted to see.

There are still problems to address. Liverpool need greater consistency, better control in midfield and more defensive solidity.

But we shouldn’t underestimate the importance of this result.

The players needed to show character after losing to Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, and they responded with three goals away from home.

Mac Allister found the breakthrough, Wirtz got his first league goal of the campaign, and Isak continued his encouraging goalscoring form.

There was also another reminder that this squad has attacking quality when the players combine properly and move the ball with purpose.

I would still like to see more opportunities for Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha, who were among the substitutes, but today’s priority was getting the win.

And Liverpool got it.

The verdict: Three points and a platform to build on

This was not a perfect performance, but it was a very important one.

Liverpool have stopped the losing run, scored three goals and given their supporters something positive to take into the international break.

Iraola still has plenty of work to do, and nobody should suddenly start talking about Liverpool being title contenders again.

We need to be realistic about where this squad is and what needs improving.

But winning breeds confidence, and today’s result could be the start of some much-needed momentum.

Three goals, three points and a response when it mattered. That’s more like it, Liverpool!

Jamie – (The Kopite View)

Andoni Iraola has named his Liverpool starting XI for this afternoon’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

After consecutive defeats against Arsenal and Fenerbahçe, the Liverpool manager has responded with five changes as the Reds look to get their season back on track.

Liverpool starting XI:

Alisson; Araujo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Gakpo, Wirtz, Barcola; Isak.

Substitutes: Mamardashvili, Gomez, Tsimikas, Endo, McConnell, Nyoni, Muñoz, Ngumoha, Koumas.

Szoboszlai returns – Nyoni drops to the bench

The biggest talking point is the return of Dominik Szoboszlai to the starting midfield alongside Alexis Mac Allister.

Trey Nyoni impressed in Istanbul, scoring his first Champions League goal, but he has been named among the substitutes.

I understand the temptation to bring Szoboszlai back, particularly given his energy and ability to cover ground. However, I still want to see Nyoni given more opportunities. He has shown enough recently to deserve serious consideration.

With Ryan Gravenberch unavailable because of his ongoing heel problem, this is another opportunity for Mac Allister and Szoboszlai to establish a partnership.

Isak leads the attack as Gakpo and Barcola return

Alexander Isak starts after scoring from the bench against Fenerbahçe.

This is important because Liverpool need to get their £125 million striker into dangerous positions and provide him with better service.

Bradley Barcola returns to his more familiar wide role, while Cody Gakpo also comes back into the starting XI.

Florian Wirtz continues behind Isak, and there is plenty of attacking quality in this front four.

But quality on paper means very little unless Liverpool start creating clear-cut opportunities.

No starting place for Ngumoha

I was hoping to see Rio Ngumoha handed a starting opportunity today.

The youngster offers directness, pace and the willingness to take defenders on. Liverpool have lacked that spark in recent performances, so I would have liked to see him given the chance from the beginning.

He is on the bench alongside Nyoni, Víctor Muñoz and the other attacking options.

Hopefully, Iraola is prepared to use them if Liverpool need something different during the second half.

Liverpool need a response at Selhurst Park

There can be no hiding from the importance of today’s fixture.

Two defeats have raised questions about Liverpool’s performances, squad depth and the balance of the team.

Crystal Palace are not going to make life easy, even with Jean-Philippe Mateta suspended, and Selhurst Park is a difficult place to visit.

Liverpool need to show more intensity, move the ball quicker and give Isak the service he needs.

Iraola has picked an experienced starting XI, and now it is up to those players to deliver.

Three points are essential. More importantly, Liverpool need a performance that gives supporters something to believe in again.

Jamie – (The Kopite View)