Another busy night of international football for Liverpool’s players, with several Reds representing their countries across Europe.
There was good news for Andoni Iraola, particularly concerning Dominik Szoboszlai, who completed the full 90 minutes for Hungary despite recent concerns over his knee.
Alexander Isak also featured for Sweden, while Lewis Koumas was involved in Wales’ defeat against Norway.
Here’s how Liverpool’s players got on.
Szoboszlai and Kerkez Help Hungary Beat Georgia
Hungary secured an important 2-0 victory away to Georgia, with three Liverpool connections involved.
Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez both played the full 90 minutes, while Giorgi Mamardashvili started in goal for Georgia.
Szoboszlai was particularly influential, providing the assist for Hungary’s second goal after helping create the opening goal from a corner, which resulted in an own goal.
Barnabás Varga finished the move in the 85th minute to seal the victory.
The biggest positive for Liverpool is that Szoboszlai completed the match after arriving on international duty with concerns over his knee.
He had admitted that he nearly pulled out during the warm-up, so getting through 90 minutes will be encouraging news for Iraola.
However, Liverpool will still be hoping he comes through Hungary’s next fixture without any reaction.
Kerkez also got another full match under his belt, while Mamardashvili was beaten twice despite making some important saves.
Wales 1-3 Norway – Koumas Plays 64 Minutes
Lewis Koumas started for Wales but couldn’t prevent a 3-1 defeat against Norway in Oslo.
The Liverpool youngster played 64 minutes before being substituted.
It was a difficult evening for Wales, who struggled to get the result they wanted against a strong Norwegian side.
Koumas will nevertheless have gained valuable experience from another international appearance.
He’ll be hoping to make a bigger impact when Wales return to action.
Sweden 3-2 Bosnia & Herzegovina – Isak Gets 81 Minutes
Alexander Isak played 81 minutes as Sweden claimed an entertaining 3-2 victory over Bosnia & Herzegovina.
The Liverpool striker even had the ball in the net during the first half, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
It was another useful outing for Isak, who continues to build his match fitness and sharpness.
Liverpool will be pleased to see him getting regular minutes, particularly with the Manchester United clash at Anfield approaching.
Sweden’s victory also secured promotion to League A of the Nations League.
What Does This Mean for Liverpool?
There were some encouraging signs for Iraola.
Szoboszlai getting through a full match is probably the biggest talking point, although his knee still needs monitoring.
Kerkez and Isak also got valuable minutes, while Koumas continued his international development.
Liverpool supporters will now be hoping the remaining fixtures pass without any injury problems.
With Manchester United coming to Anfield on November 22, the last thing Iraola needs is another injury setback.
By Jamie (The Kopite View)
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