Liverpool’s first Premier League starting XI of the new season has been confirmed — and there are some really interesting decisions from Andoni Iraola.
The Reds face Newcastle United at St James’ Park, and Iraola has gone with:
Alisson; Frimpong, Van Dijk, Jacquet, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Wirtz, Ngumoha, Isak, Gakpo.
Liverpool’s starting XI
GK: Alisson
DEF: Jeremie Frimpong, Virgil van Dijk, Jérémy Jacquet, Milos Kerkez
MID: Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai
ATT: Florian Wirtz, Rio Ngumoha, Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo
What a team this is
There are some major talking points here.
The first is Florian Wirtz.
The German starts in an attacking role and will be expected to find space between Newcastle’s midfield and defence.
Then there’s Alexander Isak.
The Swedish striker makes his return to St James’ Park wearing a Liverpool shirt.
That could be an incredibly emotional occasion for him — but Liverpool will be hoping he can put the emotions aside and concentrate on causing Newcastle problems.
Ngumoha gets the nod
One of the biggest surprises is Rio Ngumoha starting on the left.
The teenager has been given an enormous opportunity by Iraola.
Liverpool have been searching for more pace and quality in the wide areas, and Ngumoha has been trusted to provide exactly that.
At just 17, this is a huge moment for him.
Imagine scoring your first Premier League goal at St James’ Park.
Gakpo starts too
Cody Gakpo also gets the nod, meaning Liverpool have plenty of attacking versatility.
Iraola has already confirmed that he believes Gakpo can play as a No.9.
But with Isak starting centrally, Gakpo could have an important role from the left or potentially move around the front line during the match.
His ability to drift inside could create space for Kerkez to attack from left-back.
Gravenberch and Szoboszlai
The midfield pairing is also fascinating.
Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai are trusted to control the centre of the pitch.
It’s a relatively young and athletic midfield, but Newcastle will provide an enormous physical test.
Liverpool will need them to press aggressively, cover ground and help protect the defence when Newcastle counter.
Jacquet starts alongside Van Dijk
Jérémy Jacquet gets his first Premier League start alongside captain Virgil van Dijk.
That is another major test.
Van Dijk’s experience will be vital, particularly in an intimidating atmosphere like St James’ Park.
Jacquet will have to stay composed because Newcastle will undoubtedly try to put Liverpool’s new defensive partnership under pressure.
A strong bench
Liverpool also have plenty of options available from the bench:
Mamardashvili, Endo, Mac Allister, Tsimikas, Munoz, Araujo, Nyoni, McConnell and Koumas.
And I particularly like the options in midfield.
If Liverpool need more control, Alexis Mac Allister can come on.
If Iraola wants more energy, Trey Nyoni is available.
And Wataru Endo provides another defensive option.
Isak’s big return
But let’s be honest — everyone’s eyes will be on one man.
Alexander Isak.
His first Premier League appearance for Liverpool at his former home.
The Newcastle supporters will undoubtedly have plenty to say.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping he responds in the best possible way.
With a goal.
The Iraola era starts now
This is the team Iraola believes can begin Liverpool’s new Premier League campaign with three points.
It’s young.
It’s exciting.
It’s aggressive.
And there is plenty of attacking quality.
Alisson
Frimpong – Van Dijk – Jacquet – Kerkez
Gravenberch – Szoboszlai
Wirtz – Ngumoha – Isak – Gakpo
Now it’s time to see what this Liverpool side can do when the points actually matter.
Come on Liverpool!
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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