The Kopite View

I’ll be honest, I’m completely with Graeme Souness on this one.

Liverpool have a huge decision to make over Virgil van Dijk’s future, but I’m not convinced we should be looking at his age and automatically assuming his best days are behind him.

At 35, nobody is suggesting Van Dijk can play forever. Football catches up with everybody eventually.

But have we really reached the point where Liverpool should be preparing to say goodbye to their captain?

Souness certainly doesn’t think so.

The former Liverpool captain has urged the club to offer van Dijk another year at Anfield, with the option of a second, and described him as a “Rolls-Royce of a player.” Speaking to Mirror Football, he also pushed back against the suggestion that van Dijk never fully recovered from his serious knee injury.

And I think Liverpool supporters should listen to that.

“It’s a lazy thing to say he’s not the same player”

Souness made an interesting point about the criticism van Dijk received after his devastating knee injury in the Merseyside derby in October 2020.

Jordan Pickford’s challenge left the Liverpool defender with an ACL injury that ruled him out for the remainder of that season.

There were understandable questions about whether he would ever return to his previous level.

But Souness believes the criticism that followed was unfair.

> “It’s a lazy thing to say he’s not the same player. I didn’t see that.”

That is a strong statement, but I understand exactly where he is coming from.

van Dijk returned to Liverpool, helped the club win major trophies and continued to be one of the most influential centre-backs in the Premier League.

He has not needed to be the fastest defender on the pitch to remain effective. His reading of the game, positioning, aerial ability and composure have always been among his greatest strengths.

And those qualities don’t suddenly disappear because a player reaches his mid-thirties.

If anything, experience can make a defender even more valuable.

Souness also made a point about Konaté

One of the more interesting parts of Souness’ assessment was his suggestion that playing alongside Ibrahima Konaté had sometimes made things difficult for van Dijk.

He said:

“I think Konaté was a difficult player to be playing with.”

That’s an opinion worth discussing, particularly because centre-back partnerships are about much more than the individual performances of the two players.

One defender might need to cover space behind his partner, while the other has to decide when to step forward and challenge an attacker. If those decisions aren’t synchronised, both players can end up looking worse than they really are.

van Dijk has often been at his best when the partnership alongside him gives him the confidence to organise the defensive line and deal with danger before it develops.

And Liverpool’s emerging partnership between van Dijk and Jérémy Jacquet gives the captain another opportunity to show what he can do.

I’m not saying Jacquet is automatically the perfect partner, but the early signs have been encouraging.

For me, Liverpool should be looking at how van Dijk performs alongside the defenders available to him now, rather than judging his future solely on the difficulties of previous seasons.

“He’s got better the longer he’s been at Liverpool”

This was my favourite part of Souness’ comments.

He believes van Dijk has actually improved during his time at Anfield, explaining that his experience has helped him anticipate danger earlier.

That makes sense.

A defender who understands the game can sometimes compensate for a loss of pace by recognising danger before an opponent has even received the ball.

van Dijk has spent years facing the best attackers in England and Europe. He knows when to step out, when to hold his position and how to organise the players around him.

And let’s not forget what he brings beyond his individual defending.

He’s Liverpool’s captain.

He sets standards, organises the back line and provides leadership in difficult moments. Replacing that influence would be another challenge for a club already trying to build its next generation of defenders.

Liverpool can recruit a younger centre-back, but finding somebody who combines van Dijk’s quality, experience and authority is a very different task.

That’s why I wouldn’t be in a rush to let him go.

A one-year deal with an option makes sense

This is where I think Souness has got it right.

He isn’t suggesting Liverpool should offer van Dijk another massive long-term contract and ignore the risks.

His proposal is straightforward: give him another year, with an option for a second.

That would give Liverpool some flexibility while recognising what Van Dijk continues to contribute.

Of course, the club would need to consider his wages, workload and how his performances develop. There is no guarantee that a player will maintain his level indefinitely, regardless of how good he has been.

But Liverpool also need to think about what happens if they allow him to leave too soon.

They would lose their captain, their most experienced defender and one of the players who understands the club’s expectations better than almost anyone else in the squad.

For me, that is a risk worth taking seriously.

A shorter extension could provide a sensible middle ground: reward van Dijk for what he is still giving Liverpool without committing the club to a lengthy deal.

Liverpool aren’t ready to replace everything van Dijk brings

I like the direction Liverpool’s defence is taking.

Jacquet has been encouraging, Ronald Araújo provides valuable flexibility, and Giovanni Leoni’s eventual return should give Andoni Iraola more options.

But those players still have different levels of experience, and none can simply be expected to replace van Dijk’s influence overnight.

Liverpool need to plan for life after their captain. That is unavoidable.

But planning for the future doesn’t mean pushing an important player out before the time is right.

van Dijk can help the younger defenders develop while continuing to contribute on the pitch. If he maintains his level, there is a strong argument for keeping him around.

And if his workload needs managing, Liverpool should use their defensive depth to give him the occasional rest rather than expecting him to play every minute.

That would benefit both van Dijk and the club.

I’m with Souness on this one

I understand why Liverpool have to be careful. van Dijk is 35, and every contract decision needs to account for what happens next.

But I don’t believe age alone should decide this.

Souness has reminded us that van Dijk remains a defender whose intelligence and experience are hugely valuable. His recovery from that terrible injury was remarkable, and his contribution to Liverpool has been extraordinary.

I would give him another year, with an option for a second.

That gives Liverpool time to develop their younger defenders while allowing van Dijk to continue leading the team if his performances justify it.

He has earned that consideration.

Liverpool should never make decisions based purely on sentiment, but they shouldn’t ignore what they still have in front of them either.

Virgil van Dijk has given this club so much. If he can continue performing at the level we’re seeing, I see no reason to rush him towards the exit.

As Souness put it, he’s a Rolls-Royce.

And I’m not ready to park him in the garage just yet.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’m going to make a bold claim here.

Alexander Isak might not be Liverpool’s best player, but I’m starting to think he could be our most important.

And after watching Liverpool fight back to beat Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium, I think there is a very good argument for it.

Two goals at Ipswich. One at Bournemouth. One at Brentford.

That is four goals across those three away games, and the goals against Ipswich and Brentford were particularly valuable in turning difficult matches into wins.

Isak has now scored five goals in six Premier League appearances this season, according to This Is Anfield.

For a striker who has had to deal with injuries and is still building his understanding with his new teammates, that is an encouraging return.

But what interests me most is not simply how many goals he scores.

It is when he scores them.

Isak is delivering when Liverpool need him

Saturday’s trip to Brentford was another example.

Liverpool were struggling to find their rhythm, and Keane Lewis-Potter put the hosts ahead just before half-time. Brentford were organised, aggressive and making life difficult for Iraola’s side.

The game changed when Yehor Yarmoliuk was sent off for a headbutt on Jérémy Jacquet, but Liverpool still had to make their advantage count.

Victor Muñoz levelled the match in the second half, and then Isak produced the moment that mattered.

Bradley Barcola nodded the ball into his path, and Isak controlled it before drilling a finish into the bottom corner in the 70th minute.

It was the sort of finish you expect from a striker of his quality.

No panic. No unnecessary touches. Just control the ball, create the opening and put it away.

Isak later explained that he had not seen many chances coming his way, so he was waiting for his moment. When it arrived, he made the most of it.

That is what good strikers do.

They can be quiet for long periods and still decide a game with one opportunity.

And Liverpool have been crying out for that kind of reliability.

Liverpool have plenty of attacking talent – but Isak gives them something different

Look at the options Iraola has available when everyone is fit.

Florian Wirtz can create chances and find passes that other players simply do not see.

Barcola has pace, trickery and the ability to beat defenders.

Cody Gakpo can carry the ball, cut inside and contribute goals.

Hugo Ekitike offers another attacking option, while Muñoz is already showing that he can contribute in important moments.

There is a lot of talent there.

But Isak gives Liverpool something none of those players quite provide in the same way: a natural centre-forward who can turn half a chance into a goal.

That is why I think he could become so important.

Liverpool do not need every attacker to score in every game. They need different players to contribute in different ways, and they need somebody who can be trusted when a chance finally arrives.

Isak is beginning to show that he can be that player.

His goal at Brentford was also a reminder that he does not need to dominate a match to influence the result.

Sometimes the most important contribution is the simplest one.

Put the ball in the net.

Barcola and Wirtz could make Isak even more valuable

The other encouraging part is that Liverpool are starting to see signs of a partnership developing between their expensive attacking recruits.

Barcola supplied the assist for Isak’s winner, while Wirtz played the pass that released Muñoz for Liverpool’s equaliser. Both contributed to the comeback after impressing in the midweek Champions League victory over LASK.

That is what I want to see more often.

Wirtz finding the passes that open up defences. Barcola stretching opponents and creating opportunities. Isak getting into the right positions and finishing the chances.

It sounds obvious, but these things take time.

Liverpool have spent heavily on their attack, and there will inevitably be pressure for those players to click immediately. I still think there is plenty of work to do, but Saturday offered another glimpse of what might be possible.

The important thing now is consistency.

One good combination is encouraging. Seeing it happen week after week would be something else entirely.

The resilience at the Gtech matters just as much

I don’t want to overlook the wider performance, either.

Liverpool had to come from behind away from home, deal with an awkward opponent and cope with more injury problems during the game.

Dominik Szoboszlai went off before half-time, and Jeremie Frimpong lasted only a few minutes after coming on at the break. Despite those setbacks, Liverpool found a way to win.

Muñoz deserves credit for his equaliser, and Iraola deserves credit for sticking with an attacking approach after Frimpong was forced off. Rather than simply making a like-for-like defensive change, he used Muñoz at right-back and kept Liverpool’s attacking threat on that side.

It paid off.

There were certainly things Liverpool could have done better, and Brentford’s red cards inevitably influenced the game. I’m not going to pretend it was a flawless performance.

But Liverpool still had to take advantage of the situation.

They did that, and they left with three points.

After the disappointment of losing 3–0 to Manchester City, that response was vital.

Good teams have to find ways to win when they are not at their best.

Liverpool did exactly that at the Gtech.

Isak could be the player who makes the difference

This is why I keep coming back to Isak.

Liverpool have players who can excite us, players who can create something out of nothing and players who can change the direction of a match with one clever pass.

But goals remain the currency of football.

You can dominate possession, create promising moves and look dangerous for 20 minutes. If nobody finishes the chances, none of it matters.

Isak is giving Liverpool a focal point and, increasingly, a reliable finisher.

I’m not saying he is better than Wirtz, Van Dijk, Alisson or any of Liverpool’s other top players. That’s a different argument.

I’m saying that his role could be more important than people realise.

If Isak stays fit and continues scoring at this rate, Liverpool will have a much better chance of turning their attacking talent into points.

And with Barcola, Wirtz, Gakpo and the other options around him, there is plenty of potential for the team to become more dangerous as the season progresses.

Isak might not be Liverpool’s best player. But he could be the player who makes the biggest difference to their season.

Four goals across those three away games tell part of the story.

The comeback at Brentford tells the rest.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, but they have a striker delivering important goals, attacking options beginning to contribute and a team that refused to give in when the afternoon became difficult.

That is something worth building on.

And if Isak keeps delivering when Liverpool need him most, I think we’ll soon understand just how important he really is.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I can understand why Liverpool are looking at alternatives to Alex Scott.

I’ve said before that I like the idea of Liverpool bringing Scott to Anfield. He is an energetic midfielder who knows the Premier League, and Andoni Iraola already knows him from their time together at Bournemouth.

But when you’re talking about a potential fee of more than £100 million, you have to ask whether there are better ways to spend that money.

And now another name has entered the conversation.

Felix Nmecha of Borussia Dortmund.

According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool are considering the Germany international as an alternative to Scott, with Bournemouth’s reported asking price making a deal for their midfielder difficult. Nmecha is valued at around €90 million (£76 million), although Dortmund are said to be reluctant to sell.

That is still a huge amount of money.

But it is considerably less than the £110m–£115m figure being discussed for Scott.

And if Liverpool are serious about strengthening their midfield, I think this is a story worth watching.

Why Liverpool are looking beyond Alex Scott

Scott is an appealing target, particularly because of his connection with Iraola.

The Liverpool manager knows what the midfielder can bring to a team, and a reunion at Anfield would make sense on paper.

The problem is the price.

Sky Sports reported on October 15 that Bournemouth could consider offers exceeding £80m with add-ons in January, provided their Premier League position makes a sale viable. Other reports have suggested a valuation closer to £100m or more.

Those figures leave Liverpool with a difficult decision.

Scott is a talented player, but spending more than £100m on one midfielder would be a major commitment, particularly when Liverpool have other areas of the squad to consider.

And that is where Nmecha becomes interesting.

What could Felix Nmecha offer Liverpool?

Nmecha is 26 and has experience in both English and German football.

He spent 12 years in Manchester City’s academy before moving to Wolfsburg and later joining Borussia Dortmund. He also made three senior appearances for City before leaving English football.

CaughtOffside reports that Liverpool’s recruitment staff regard him as an underrated option who could make an immediate impact under Iraola.

He is a different proposition from Scott, though, and that matters.

Scott is known for carrying the ball forward, driving through midfield and helping his team progress possession. Nmecha offers a different profile, with his physical presence and ability to compete for possession potentially appealing to Liverpool.

A recent comparison published by Sports Mole highlighted Nmecha’s work without the ball, while also questioning aspects of his possession game. The report noted that he has had fitness problems in recent seasons, so Liverpool would need to consider that carefully.

I wouldn’t automatically say Nmecha is the better player.

But if Liverpool want a midfielder who can bring a different balance to the team, I can see why he might be on their list.

The £76m question

Let’s not pretend £76m is cheap.

That is a serious investment in a 26-year-old, especially when the reported fee is not confirmed as an agreed price.

Dortmund are said to insist that Nmecha is not for sale. However, CaughtOffside reports that an offer around €90m could potentially open negotiations.

Liverpool would therefore still need to convince Dortmund to do business.

And there is another question: would Nmecha actually be the right fit?

Iraola needs midfielders who can handle the physical demands of the Premier League while helping Liverpool control matches. He also needs the right balance between winning the ball, progressing play and supporting the attackers.

Nmecha could offer some of those qualities, but Liverpool would have to be certain that his strengths fit the role they want him to perform.

Paying less than £115m doesn’t automatically make a transfer good business.

The player has to be right.

I’d still keep Scott in the conversation

I don’t want Liverpool to abandon the idea of signing Scott simply because another name has appeared.

There is a reason Iraola’s former Bournemouth midfielder is attracting serious interest. He understands the Premier League, has experience in English football and could potentially make the transition to Anfield more straightforward.

But Liverpool must have alternatives.

That is how a sensible recruitment strategy should work.

If Bournemouth demand a fee Liverpool consider excessive, the club should be prepared to move on rather than allowing one target to dictate the entire transfer budget.

Nmecha is one possibility. CaughtOffside also mentioned Monaco’s Lamine Camara as another alternative, suggesting Liverpool are considering different profiles rather than focusing on Scott alone.

That is encouraging, even if none of these links guarantees a January signing.

Liverpool need to get this decision right

For me, the important thing is not whether Liverpool sign Scott or Nmecha.

It is whether they bring in the midfielder who best suits Iraola’s plans.

Liverpool need more options in the middle of the pitch, and I would rather see them carefully assess several targets than spend an enormous fee simply because one player is available.

Scott would be an exciting addition.

Nmecha is an intriguing alternative.

But at £76m, the Dortmund midfielder would hardly represent a bargain, and his fitness record deserves attention before Liverpool consider committing that sort of money.

January is still some way off, so there is plenty of time for this story to change.

If Bournemouth’s valuation of Alex Scott really is pushing beyond £100m, Liverpool need a Plan B.

And Felix Nmecha could be one of the names they seriously consider.

The question is whether he is the right alternative — or whether Liverpool can find better value elsewhere.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I think Liverpool need to get serious about three contracts before they create problems that could have been avoided.

Alexis Mac Allister. Virgil van Dijk. Alisson Becker.

Three very different players, at different stages of their careers, but all three remain hugely important to Liverpool.

And if we’re serious about building a successful team under Andoni Iraola, I don’t think we can afford to let their futures drift without a clear plan.

We’ve already seen what happens when contract situations drag on for too long. Supporters spend months worrying about whether important players will stay, while the club risks losing control of the situation.

Liverpool need to get ahead of this rather than wait until it’s too late.

Mac Allister is the one I’m most concerned about

Let’s start with Alexis, because this situation genuinely bothers me.

Mac Allister has admitted that he was disappointed Liverpool had not offered him a new contract. He also revealed that he had opportunities to leave during the summer but chose to stay because he believes Liverpool can achieve something special.

That tells me plenty.

He wants to be at Liverpool. He wants to win trophies. He believes in what the club can achieve.

So why leave this situation hanging?

Mac Allister has been an important player for Liverpool since arriving from Brighton in 2023. He has intelligence, composure and the ability to dictate the tempo of a game. When he’s playing well, he gives Liverpool’s midfield a balance that is difficult to replace.

I know he had difficult spells last season. I’m not suggesting Liverpool should hand out contracts regardless of performances, and I understand that the club has to consider age, wages and long-term value.

But Mac Allister is 27. He should still have plenty of good years ahead of him.

For me, this is exactly the sort of player Liverpool should be trying to keep.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch have both signed new deals, making Mac Allister’s situation even more noticeable. He has publicly said he will continue giving everything for Liverpool, but I don’t want us to reach a point where another club makes a serious move and suddenly we are scrambling to find a replacement.

Liverpool should be working towards a new deal with Mac Allister, not leaving him wondering where he stands.

van Dijk still has an enormous role to play

Then there’s Virgil van Dijk.

I know some supporters will look at his age and argue that Liverpool should be planning for the future rather than offering another contract.

Of course, we have to plan for the future. Nobody can play forever.

But I don’t believe you simply move on from a player like Van Dijk because he is getting older.

He’s Liverpool’s captain, a leader in the dressing room and an experienced defender who can help the younger players develop. His partnership with Jérémy Jacquet has also given Liverpool an encouraging foundation at centre-back.

Jacquet has enormous potential, but he’s still developing. Having van Dijk beside him can make a real difference, particularly when Liverpool are under pressure in difficult matches.

And let’s not forget the standards van Dijk has helped establish at this club.

He has experienced title races, Champions League nights and the pressure of playing for Liverpool when expectations are enormous.

That experience matters.

Reports in October have suggested Liverpool could be open to extending his contract, although there is no guarantee an agreement will be reached.

I’d certainly explore a sensible extension if Van Dijk continues to perform at the required level.

I’m not saying Liverpool should offer him a huge deal without considering the risks. The length of the contract, wages and his physical condition all matter.

But if he can continue contributing at a high level, why wouldn’t we want our captain to remain part of the project?

Liverpool need to manage his eventual succession properly. They don’t necessarily need to make him leave before that succession is ready.

Alisson is still worth keeping

And then we come to Alisson.

Honestly, I still think we sometimes underestimate just how important he is to Liverpool.

A goalkeeper’s job isn’t only about making saves. It’s about organising the defence, making the right decisions under pressure and giving the players in front of him confidence.

Alisson has done all of that for years.

He has been one of the most important signings of Liverpool’s modern era, helping the club win major trophies and providing world-class performances when they have mattered most.

Yes, Liverpool have Giorgi Mamardashvili waiting for his opportunity. He’s an important part of the club’s long-term planning, and Liverpool need to give him a pathway into the team.

But that doesn’t automatically mean Alisson should be moved on.

There is a difference between preparing for the future and rushing it.

I’d love Liverpool to keep Alisson for another couple of years, provided the terms make sense for both sides. He can continue performing at the highest level while Mamardashvili learns from one of the best goalkeepers around.

Liverpool’s manager, Iraola, has already made clear that he wants both Alisson and Mac Allister to remain at the club.

That is an important signal. These are players the manager values, and recruitment decisions should reflect that.

Three contracts, but three different decisions

I don’t think Liverpool should approach all three situations in exactly the same way.

Mac Allister deserves clarity about his future and a serious discussion about an extension.

van Dijk’s deal should reflect his importance, his performances and the need to plan for the next generation.

Alisson should be retained if Liverpool can agree terms that protect the club while allowing him to keep contributing.

Those are sensible decisions, not sentimental ones.

And that’s the distinction I want Liverpool to make.

I’m not asking the club to pay whatever these players demand. I’m asking it to recognise the value of experience, quality and continuity.

Liverpool have spent heavily on new players and are trying to build a team capable of competing for major honours. That investment will mean very little if we allow the experienced players who hold the side together to drift towards the exit without a proper succession plan.

Liverpool cannot afford another contract headache

What frustrates me is that these situations should be manageable if the club plans early.

Mac Allister’s unhappiness is already public. van Dijk’s future needs to be addressed. Alisson’s long-term role must be clear, especially with Mamardashvili waiting.

None of this means all three players will leave. Nor does it mean Liverpool should offer contracts without thinking carefully about the financial consequences.

But it does mean the club needs to make decisions.

For me, Mac Allister, van Dijk and Alisson are all worth keeping if the terms are right.

They bring different things to Liverpool, but each has a role to play in helping Iraola build a successful team.

Mac Allister can help control midfield. Van Dijk provides leadership and defensive experience. Alisson gives the team a goalkeeper capable of changing the outcome of a game.

Those qualities are difficult to replace overnight.

Liverpool should be building for the future without throwing away what already works.

Get the contract strategy right, give these players clarity and make sure the next generation is ready when the time comes.

Because keeping your best players is every bit as important as signing new ones.

And I really don’t want Liverpool learning that lesson the hard way.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’m going to say it: Jérémy Jacquet might just be the signing of the summer in the Premier League.

And after watching him against Brentford, I’m struggling to think of many new arrivals who have made a better impression.

Liverpool won 2–1 at the Gtech Community Stadium, coming from behind to take all three points. But while Alexander Isak grabbed the winning goal and Víctor Muñoz scored the equaliser, I thought Jacquet deserved enormous credit for another seriously impressive performance.

The Frenchman looks completely at home in English football already.

He doesn’t look frightened by the physical side of the Premier League. He doesn’t look overwhelmed by the pressure of playing for Liverpool. And he certainly doesn’t look like somebody who needs months to settle in.

He looks like he belongs here.

Thiago tried to make it a battle. Jacquet was ready for him.

One of the things I loved about Jacquet today was the way he stood up to Thiago.

Thiago is an experienced, physical striker who knows how to make life uncomfortable for defenders. He wants to get into their heads, use his strength and turn a contest into a battle.

But Jacquet didn’t appear interested in backing down.

He met the challenge, stood his ground and showed that he isn’t going to be bullied just because an opponent tries to make things physical.

Liverpool’s own match coverage praised his powerful early challenges and highlighted a key intervention to stop Thiago.

That is what impressed me.

There is a difference between being an aggressive defender and being a reckless one. Jacquet looks like he understands how to compete without losing his head.

And that is a valuable quality in a Liverpool centre-back.

We’ve seen defenders struggle when opponents target them physically. They start making rash decisions, get dragged out of position or become too eager to win every individual battle.

Jacquet looks comfortable with that side of the game.

You want to have a go at him? Fine. He’ll have a go back.

This is why Liverpool spent so much money on him

Liverpool reportedly paid around £60 million to bring Jacquet from Rennes, and there were naturally questions about whether such a young defender could justify that investment immediately.

He had made only 33 senior appearances for Rennes before joining Liverpool. On paper, that was a relatively small amount of experience for a player arriving with such a price tag.

But the early signs have been excellent.

Jacquet has settled alongside Virgil van Dijk, looks composed in possession and is willing to defend on the front foot. He has already shown that he can compete physically while also helping Liverpool move the ball forward.

Opta Analyst highlighted his impressive duel numbers, progressive carries and ability to play passes into the final third earlier this month.

That combination is exactly what you want.

A centre-back has to defend first. There is no point being comfortable on the ball if you cannot handle an opponent running directly at you.

But the best defenders offer more than that. They read danger, anticipate passes, win duels and help their team build attacks.

Jacquet is showing signs of being that type of player.

And he’s doing it while still so young.

The best French centre-back in the Premier League?

Now, I know that is a big statement.

There are other excellent French defenders in English football, and Jacquet has only played a relatively small number of Premier League games.

I’m not pretending a handful of impressive performances automatically settle that debate.

But if we’re talking about the impression he’s made so far, Jacquet has every reason to be in the conversation.

He has earned praise from Zinedine Zidane during his first senior appearances for France, and his performances for Liverpool have continued to attract attention.

What I particularly like is that he doesn’t seem to need a spectacular moment to have a good game.

Sometimes a centre-back’s best work goes unnoticed. It’s the early interception that stops a counterattack, the positioning that forces a striker away from goal or the physical challenge that prevents an opponent turning.

Jacquet is beginning to make those contributions look routine.

And alongside van Dijk, he has a fantastic opportunity to keep developing.

Van Dijk has seen just about everything football can throw at a defender. Playing alongside him should help Jacquet learn when to be aggressive, when to hold his position and when to let the game come to him.

Liverpool could have a formidable partnership on their hands.

Liverpool have found something special

The biggest compliment I can give Jacquet is that I’m already comfortable seeing his name on the team sheet.

That might sound obvious, but new signings don’t always inspire that confidence so quickly.

Some need time. Some struggle with the pace of the league. Others take months to understand what their manager expects.

Jacquet has had his own challenges, including an injury setback during the international break, but he has returned and continued to impress.

Against Brentford, he showed the same front-foot attitude that has made him such an encouraging signing.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, and today’s comeback wasn’t perfect. But Jacquet is one of the reasons I feel positive about the direction of this defence.

He has the physicality, the confidence and the willingness to compete.

And he doesn’t appear to be intimidated by anyone.

For me, Jérémy Jacquet is already one of the signings of the summer.

Is he definitively the best French centre-back in the Premier League? It’s too early to make that call with certainty.

But if he keeps performing like this, Liverpool supporters are going to have a lot of fun watching him develop.

Thiago found out today that Jacquet isn’t somebody you can simply bully.

And I suspect plenty of other Premier League strikers are going to discover the same thing.

Liverpool might have found an absolute monster at centre-back.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, there is something about Víctor Muñoz that reminds me of Diogo Jota.

It isn’t about comparing their careers or suggesting Muñoz is already at Jota’s level. He has plenty to prove at Liverpool, and I don’t want to get carried away after a handful of appearances.

But when I watch Muñoz play, I see some of those qualities that made Jota such a brilliant player for us.

The bravery. The work rate. The direct running. And that determination to get into positions where he can score.

Those things matter at Liverpool. Sometimes they matter just as much as the fancy footwork or the spectacular goals.

And I think Muñoz could become a very popular player at Anfield if he keeps showing them.

He isn’t afraid to take players on

One of the things I loved about Jota was how positive he could be around the penalty area.

He didn’t always need to do something complicated. He could turn, drive towards goal, get a shot away and make life uncomfortable for defenders.

Muñoz has that same willingness to attack.

He wants to run at people. He wants to get forward quickly. He doesn’t seem interested in taking the safe option every time he receives the ball.

That is exactly the sort of football I want to see from Liverpool under Andoni Iraola.

Muñoz arrived from Osasuna after an impressive breakthrough season in Spain, and his dribbling and progressive running were among the qualities that attracted attention. He completed 12 dribbles in one La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano during the 2025-26 season — an extraordinary number.

Of course, beating a defender is only part of the job. He still needs to improve his end product and make the right decisions in the final third.

But I’d much rather see a Liverpool winger take responsibility and try to make something happen than constantly turn backwards and allow the opposition to get organised.

Muñoz gives us that willingness to attack.

The industry is what really stands out to me

This is where the Jota comparison becomes particularly interesting.

Jota wasn’t simply a goalscorer. He worked relentlessly for the team, pressed defenders, chased lost causes and made life difficult for opponents even when he wasn’t getting on the scoresheet.

Muñoz has shown similar energy.

He doesn’t look like somebody who believes his job ends when Liverpool lose possession. He is prepared to track back, compete and put the work in for his teammates.

Liverpool’s own assessment of Muñoz highlighted his unselfishness and willingness to contribute defensively, alongside his explosive pace and ability to play on either wing.

That is important because Iraola wants his forwards to work for the team.

You can’t build an aggressive pressing side with attackers who only want the ball at their feet. You need players prepared to sprint, close down defenders and make repeated runs, even when they don’t receive a pass.

Jota understood that.

And I like what I’ve seen from Muñoz in that respect.

He brings energy, but it isn’t just running for the sake of it. He wants to make things happen, whether that means carrying the ball forward, attacking the box or helping Liverpool win possession back.

Those are the sorts of things supporters notice.

And then there’s his knack of finding the net

The other part of the comparison is the most exciting one.

Jota had an excellent instinct for getting into scoring positions. He could appear in the right place at the right time, react quickly inside the box and finish chances before defenders had time to recover.

Muñoz has shown signs of that attacking instinct too.

Before joining Liverpool, he scored seven goals and provided five assists in all competitions for Osasuna during the 2025-26 campaign. He also scored on his senior Spain debut against Serbia after coming off the bench.

Those numbers don’t make him the finished article, but they show there is more to his game than pace and dribbling.

I want to see him attacking the far post, making runs beyond the striker and taking chances when they fall his way.

A winger who can beat his man is useful. A winger who can beat his man and then threaten the goal is even more valuable.

That is the next step for Muñoz at Liverpool.

He needs to turn his energy and directness into consistent goals and assists. If he can do that, he could become a very important part of Iraola’s attack.

Liverpool could do with another player like Jota

I don’t think supporters ever fully appreciated how useful Jota was until he wasn’t there.

He could play through the middle or out wide. He worked hard, offered a genuine goal threat and gave Liverpool another way to hurt teams when matches became difficult.

Those qualities are not easy to replace.

I’m not saying Muñoz will become the new Jota. Every player is different, and Jota earned his place in Liverpool’s history through years of outstanding contributions.

But Liverpool could certainly use another forward with that combination of aggression, industry and a willingness to get into the box.

Muñoz has the raw ingredients.

He is quick, direct and prepared to work. He has already shown that he can score, and at 23 he still has plenty of room to develop.

The challenge now is consistency.

He will have quiet games. He will make mistakes. There will be occasions when he runs into trouble or chooses the wrong option.

That comes with being an ambitious attacking player.

I don’t want Iraola coaching the instinct out of him because one or two things don’t come off. I want Muñoz to learn when to release the ball, when to take on his opponent and how to make his runs count.

Keep that bravery, improve the decision-making and the potential is there.

I’m excited to see what comes next

There is something refreshing about watching a forward who wants to make things happen.

Muñoz doesn’t strike me as a player who wants to hide when a match gets difficult. He wants to run at defenders, compete and get involved.

That reminds me of Jota, and I suspect I’m not the only Liverpool supporter who sees it.

We should be careful with the comparisons, because Jota gave us so much and Muñoz has a long way to go before he can be mentioned in the same breath in terms of achievements.

But the similarities in their approach are there for me.

Bravery. Industry. A willingness to attack. And that hunger to score goals.

Those are qualities Liverpool supporters appreciate, and they fit the sort of football Iraola wants to build.

Now I want to see Muñoz keep developing, get more minutes and turn those promising signs into regular contributions.

If he can do that, Liverpool may have found a forward who gives us something we have missed since Jota.

Not another Diogo Jota.

But a player with some of the same qualities that made us love watching him play.

And I’d be absolutely delighted if Muñoz could give us even a little bit of that again.

Jamie (The Kopite View)

I’ll be honest, that was harder work than it needed to be.

Liverpool went to Brentford, fell behind, struggled to make the most of their chances and then found themselves playing against ten men after Jérémy Jacquet was headbutted by Yehor Yarmoliuk just before half-time.

The Reds eventually got the job done, though, coming from behind to win 2–1 thanks to goals from Víctor Muñoz and Alexander Isak. Brentford finished with nine men after Vitaly Janelt was sent off late on.

It wasn’t perfect, but three points away from home are three points away from home.

Here are my Liverpool player ratings.

Starting XI

Alisson Becker – 7/10

A reassuring presence when Liverpool needed calmness at the back. He was authoritative on set-pieces and couldn’t do much about Brentford’s opening goal, with Keane Lewis-Potter’s header finding its way past him.

Ronald Araújo – 6/10

Solid enough defensively, but he struggled to make much of an attacking contribution down the right. His afternoon ended at half-time when Jeremie Frimpong came on, although that change didn’t exactly go to plan.

Jérémy Jacquet – 7/10

Another encouraging performance from the young defender. He communicated well with Virgil van Dijk, made some strong early challenges and produced an important intervention to deny Thiago.

The incident with Yarmoliuk was a strange end to the first half, but Jacquet kept his composure and Liverpool benefited from the red card. He’s becoming a seriously important player for Iraola.

Virgil van Dijk – 8/10

My pick of the defenders. He looked commanding for most of the afternoon and produced a superb last-man interception to prevent Brentford from getting a clear chance at goal.

There were a couple of misplaced passes early on, but he settled things down as Liverpool took control. Exactly the sort of leadership you need in a difficult away game.

Milos Kerkez – 6/10

He brought plenty of energy but had some uncomfortable moments against Dango Ouattara, particularly when Brentford looked to attack down the flank.

His work-rate became more valuable later on, stretching the opposition and helping Liverpool find space. Still, I’d like to see him become a little more composed defensively.

Alexis Mac Allister – 7/10

This looked like a better performance from Mac Allister. He seemed sharper on the ball and more willing to drive into dangerous areas.

His late first-half run ended with a penalty appeal that was overturned by VAR, but I liked the energy he brought to Liverpool’s midfield. I’d like to see more of this from him.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 6/10

A frustrating afternoon. Szoboszlai clearly wanted to make an impact after returning from injury, but he lasted only 32 minutes before being substituted. Liverpool will be concerned about another injury setback.

He also held on to the ball too long during one counter-attacking opportunity. It’s a small detail, but Liverpool need quicker decisions in those situations.

Víctor Muñoz – 8/10 — Man of the Match

What a performance from Muñoz.

He didn’t see enough of the ball early on, but he kept making runs and looking for opportunities. After Frimpong’s brief appearance, Muñoz was pushed into a deeper role at right-back, yet he still managed to make a decisive contribution.

His equaliser was brilliantly taken. He showed pace, confidence and composure when Liverpool needed somebody to step up.

I particularly liked that he didn’t let the tactical changes disrupt his performance. He kept going, kept looking for openings and delivered when it mattered.

Florian Wirtz – 7/10

Wirtz deserves credit for his contribution to the equaliser, producing the assist for Muñoz. He created a record nine chances according to the ratings report you supplied, and he looked more involved as Liverpool gained the numerical advantage.

I’d still like him to impose himself more consistently, but this was a useful contribution. The assist matters, and so does the creativity behind it.

Bradley Barcola – 6/10

A mixed afternoon. Barcola worked hard defensively and showed flashes of the pace and directness that make him such an exciting player.

However, he missed chances and made some poor decisions when Liverpool had opportunities to break forward. Those moments will frustrate him.

He did, though, play a part in the winner, with his contribution helping Isak finish the move. He also came close to scoring himself. There’s plenty to work with, but the final decision needs to improve.

Alexander Isak – 8/10

That’s what Liverpool signed him for.

After another spell out, Isak returned to the starting XI and scored the winning goal. He wasn’t involved in everything, and Liverpool will want more consistency from him, but his instinctive finish proved decisive.

I don’t want to gloss over the recurring injury concerns, because Liverpool need him available regularly. But when the chance came, he was in the right place and did his job.

Substitutes

Trey Nyoni – 7/10

Thrown into the game earlier than expected after Szoboszlai’s injury, Nyoni handled the occasion well. He looked comfortable and didn’t allow the circumstances to overwhelm him. Another encouraging outing for a young player trying to earn more opportunities.

Jeremie Frimpong – N/A

A difficult one. He came on at half-time but lasted only around six minutes before being forced off with an injury. Liverpool simply cannot afford another prolonged absence at right-back.

Rio Ngumoha – 8/10

I really enjoyed his contribution. Ngumoha brought energy, quick feet and the willingness to take defenders on. He helped Liverpool stretch Brentford and gave the attack a different dimension.

For a young player, he looks remarkably comfortable taking responsibility. I’d like to see Iraola keep finding opportunities for him.

Joe Gomez – 7/10

A steady contribution after replacing Muñoz late on. He helped Liverpool see out the game and added some defensive security when the points were still to be protected.

Lewis Koumas – 7/10

Used his minutes well after coming on for Isak. He worked hard, got involved and gave Liverpool another option late in the game. Nothing spectacular, but a useful contribution.

Andoni Iraola – 8/10

Iraola deserves credit for getting the win, particularly after Liverpool went behind and lost Szoboszlai early.

The introduction of Ngumoha gave Liverpool more energy, while Muñoz’s adjustment to right-back showed the manager was willing to find a solution when Frimpong went off.

There will be questions about Liverpool’s finishing and the injuries, but the team kept pushing and found a way to win.

My verdict

The biggest positives for me were Muñoz, Isak and Ngumoha.

Muñoz took his opportunity brilliantly, Isak showed why Liverpool need him fit and firing, and Ngumoha once again demonstrated that he deserves minutes.

Van Dijk and Jacquet were strong at the back, while Wirtz’s creativity helped Liverpool get back into the game.

But the injuries are a worry. Szoboszlai’s early withdrawal and Frimpong’s brief appearance are not what Liverpool needed, especially with a busy run of fixtures ahead.

Still, Liverpool went behind and found a way to win away from home.

It wasn’t pretty, but it was a valuable three points — and Víctor Muñoz was the star of the show.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

I think Florian Wirtz deserves a bit of credit after what he produced against Brentford.

Liverpool needed a response after that disappointing defeat to Manchester City, and the pressure on some of our big-money signings has been growing. Wirtz has been right in the middle of that criticism, with people questioning his goals, assists and overall impact.

But sometimes the numbers tell a different story.

Wirtz has broken a Liverpool record for chances created in a single Premier League game against Brentford.

And when you look at the wider Premier League numbers, it becomes even more impressive.

Only three players have created more chances in a league match over the last decade: Pascal Groß, Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes, who each managed 10.

That puts Wirtz in some pretty serious company.

This is what Liverpool signed him for

Let’s be honest, Wirtz hasn’t had everything his own way since arriving at Anfield.

The transfer fee has brought enormous expectations, and I understand why supporters want to see more goals and assists. When you spend that sort of money on an attacking midfielder, you expect him to make a difference.

But I have always felt that judging Wirtz purely on those numbers misses part of the picture.

He is a creative player. He wants the ball, looks for passes that other players might not see and tries to make things happen between the lines.

Sometimes those passes lead directly to goals. Sometimes they create the opportunity for somebody else to make the decisive pass. And sometimes the move breaks down before Liverpool get the reward.

That doesn’t mean the original idea was wrong.

Creating chances is a skill in its own right, and Wirtz showed just how good he can be at it against Brentford.

Liverpool have struggled to create clear opportunities consistently this season. Seeing Wirtz produce a performance like this is encouraging, particularly when the team still needs to find greater attacking rhythm under Andoni Iraola.

The Brentford performance mattered for more than one reason

Liverpool’s 2-1 victory was not straightforward.

Brentford took the lead through Keane Lewis-Potter, and the Reds had to work hard to get back into the game. Wirtz helped turn things around by setting up Victor Muñoz for Liverpool’s equaliser before Alexander Isak scored the winner. Brentford also finished with nine men after two dismissals.

That is the important context.

Wirtz wasn’t simply collecting impressive statistics in a game that meant nothing. He was contributing to a Liverpool comeback in a match where the team desperately needed three points.

And after the criticism following the Manchester City defeat, that matters.

Liverpool still have plenty to improve, but winning away from home after falling behind is a positive response.

Wirtz played his part.

The criticism hasn’t disappeared, but this is encouraging

I’m not suggesting one performance suddenly answers every question about Wirtz.

He still needs to produce more goals and assists. Liverpool need their expensive attacking signings to become more decisive, and Wirtz himself will know that he can offer more in the final third.

But there is a difference between saying he needs to improve and claiming he isn’t contributing anything.

This record is a reminder of the creative ability he possesses.

And it comes at a time when Liverpool need somebody capable of unlocking stubborn defences.

I also think it should encourage Iraola to keep working with him rather than constantly changing his role. Wirtz needs to understand his teammates’ movements, while the players around him need to learn when and where to make the runs he is looking for.

That connection takes time.

The more regularly Wirtz creates chances, the greater the possibility that those opportunities will turn into goals and assists as Liverpool’s attacking play improves.

Of course, that improvement has to happen. Potential and impressive statistics only go so far if the team isn’t converting them.

But there are reasons to be encouraged.

Imagine when everything finally clicks

This is what makes Wirtz so interesting for me.

We’ve already seen flashes of his quality, and now we have a record-breaking creative performance to add to them.

He isn’t the finished product at Liverpool yet. I’m not going to pretend otherwise.

But I don’t want supporters to lose sight of what he can bring simply because the goals and assists haven’t arrived consistently enough.

A player who can create chances at this level is an asset Liverpool need to build around, not somebody we should be writing off.

Now the challenge is turning that creativity into regular end product.

If Wirtz can keep producing opportunities while developing a better understanding with Isak, Muñoz, Gakpo and the rest of Liverpool’s attack, there is every reason to believe we can see much more from him.

And that’s what I want to see.

More of those passes that open defences up. More chances created. More moments where Liverpool’s attackers are getting the ball in dangerous positions.

And, ultimately, more goals and assists to go with them.

For now, though, I think Wirtz deserves recognition for what he did against Brentford.

He has broken a Liverpool record, joined an impressive group of Premier League creators and helped the Reds secure an important victory.

That is something worth celebrating.

His critics are entitled to expect more from him.

But after this performance, I think they should also remember just how much creativity he can bring to Liverpool.

The end product still needs to improve. The talent is there. And I’m not giving up on Florian Wirtz.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Liverpool needed a response, and they got one.

After the disappointment of the defeat from Manchester City last weekend , Andoni Iraola’s side travelled to the Gtech Community Stadium knowing they needed to show more resilience. What followed was a frustrating first half, a controversial red card, and a second-half comeback that eventually earned Liverpool a massive 2-1 Premier League victory over Brentford.

But while I’m delighted with the three points, I’m not going to pretend it was all good news.

Liverpool had to come from behind, Brentford were reduced to nine men, and there were more injury concerns to worry about. Still, when the final whistle went, the Reds had done what mattered most: they had found a way to win.

Brentford take the lead – then lose their heads

Liverpool had plenty of possession, but Brentford made life difficult and looked dangerous when they had the opportunity to attack.

Just when it looked as though the sides would go into half-time level, Keane Lewis-Potter produced a superb header in the 44th minute to put the hosts ahead.

It was a blow for Liverpool, who had struggled to turn their possession into enough clear-cut chances.

Then came the incident that changed the game.

In first-half stoppage time, Yehor Yarmoliuk was sent off after making what referee John Brooks described as a “headbutting action” on Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet. The referee reviewed the incident before showing the Brentford midfielder a straight red card.

Brentford had been in control and were leading, but suddenly they were facing the second half with ten men.

There was still a job for Liverpool to do, though. Having an extra player means very little if you cannot find a way through a determined defence.

Liverpool finally find their breakthrough

I wanted to see Liverpool come out after the break with more urgency, and eventually that extra pressure began to tell.

The equaliser arrived in the 62nd minute, and it was a lovely finish from Victor Muñoz.

Florian Wirtz picked him out with an excellent pass, allowing the Spanish winger to drive forward, cut inside and finish with his left foot past Caoimhín Kelleher.

That was exactly the sort of attacking quality Liverpool needed.

Wirtz deserves credit for creating the opening, while Muñoz showed composure to take his chance. It was an important moment for both players, particularly with Liverpool needing their attacking talent to start producing more decisive contributions.

At 1-1, the momentum was firmly with the visitors.

And eight minutes later, Liverpool completed the turnaround.

Isak delivers when Liverpool need him

Alexander Isak put Liverpool ahead in the 70th minute with a clinical finish.

Bradley Barcola headed down Alexis Mac Allister’s cross, and Isak did the rest, finding the net for his fifth goal of the season.

It was a striker’s finish, and a hugely important one.

Liverpool have invested heavily in their attack, and supporters want to see those players making the difference in matches like this. Muñoz and Isak delivered the goals, while Wirtz and Barcola were involved in the two decisive moments.

It was encouraging to see the attacking players combine to turn a difficult afternoon into a victory.

There is still plenty of room for improvement, but this was a reminder of what Liverpool can do when those players begin to click.

Brentford finish with nine men

The closing stages became increasingly difficult for the hosts.

Vitaly Janelt was shown a second yellow card in stoppage time for a foul on Liverpool substitute Rio Ngumoha, leaving Brentford with just nine players.

By then, Liverpool had already done the important work, but the second dismissal summed up a miserable finish for Keith Andrews’ side.

Brentford will feel that the first red card changed the contest, and it undoubtedly had a major impact. However, Liverpool still had to take advantage, find the equaliser and then score the winner.

They did exactly that.

The comeback will give Iraola something to build on, particularly after Liverpool had struggled to turn possession into goals in recent matches.

The injury concerns are a real worry

Unfortunately, there was a downside to the victory.

Dominik Szoboszlai was forced off before half-time with what appeared to be a recurrence of his hamstring problem. Jeremie Frimpong then came on at the break but was forced off again after only a few minutes.

That is the part of the afternoon I cannot ignore.

Liverpool have important fixtures ahead, and losing players just as they are returning from injury is the last thing Iraola needs. The full extent of either problem remains unclear, so we will have to wait for further updates.

Three points are brilliant, but Liverpool need their squad available if they are going to build any momentum.

A win Liverpool badly needed

I’m pleased with this result, and I think Liverpool deserve credit for responding after falling behind.

They could have become frustrated, especially with Brentford defending in numbers after the red card. Instead, they kept pushing, found a way through and scored twice in eight minutes to turn the game around.

Muñoz took his chance well. Wirtz supplied an important pass. Isak delivered the finish. Barcola and Mac Allister combined for the winner.

Those are encouraging signs.

Of course, the numerical advantage played a huge part, and Liverpool will need to be much better against opponents who keep eleven players on the pitch. But after recent disappointments, I am not going to complain about an away win earned through a second-half fightback.

Liverpool needed three points, and they got them.

Now the challenge is to build on this performance, get the injured players assessed and make sure this result becomes a turning point rather than a one-off.

Iraola will know there is plenty still to improve, but at least his players have shown they can respond when a match starts going against them.

And sometimes, particularly in a difficult season, that fighting spirit matters just as much as the football.

Three points, a comeback and a much-needed response. Now Liverpool have to make it count.

By Jamie (The Kopite View)

Now that is the team news I wanted to see.

Liverpool have named their starting XI to face Brentford this afternoon, and there are two massive boosts straight away.

Alexander Isak and Dominik Szoboszlai are both fit enough to start.

And if that wasn’t enough, Cody Gakpo has also recovered sufficiently to take his place on the bench.

After all the injury worries during the international break, that is a huge relief for Liverpool and Andoni Iraola.

This is a difficult away game against a Brentford side that has been in good form, and Liverpool need a response after losing 3-0 to Manchester City last weekend.

Getting three important attacking players back into contention could make a real difference.

Isak is back – and Liverpool need him

I’m particularly pleased to see Isak starting.

Liverpool have missed having their first-choice striker available, and his return gives the team a natural focal point through the middle.

He’s capable of stretching defences, linking up with the players around him and finding those little spaces in the penalty area that good strikers thrive on.

With Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola alongside him, there is certainly enough quality in this front line to cause Brentford problems.

The important thing now is getting Isak back into the rhythm of playing regularly. Liverpool have invested heavily in him, and the team needs him fit and firing as the season develops.

Obviously, we will have to see how he looks after his injury, but simply having him available to start is encouraging news.

Szoboszlai’s return is just as important

The other big boost is Szoboszlai.

His energy, pressing and ability to carry the ball forward are important to the way Liverpool want to play. He can drive the team up the pitch, win possession and make those late runs into dangerous areas.

His absence was another problem for Iraola to manage, particularly with Ryan Gravenberch suspended for this game.

Now Szoboszlai is back alongside Alexis Mac Allister in midfield.

That gives Liverpool a much more experienced combination, and I’m interested to see how they work together against Brentford.

Mac Allister’s ability to dictate play should complement Szoboszlai’s energy and movement. If Liverpool can get control of the midfield, it will give Wirtz and the forwards a better platform to influence the game.

And Gakpo is back on the bench

This might be the most encouraging part of the team news.

Gakpo is named among the substitutes after recovering from his ankle problem.

He isn’t starting, so we shouldn’t assume he is ready for a full match, but having him available gives Iraola another option if Liverpool need a goal or a change of approach later on.

The bench also includes Jeremie Frimpong, Trey Nyoni, Lewis Koumas and Rio Ngumoha.

That gives Liverpool a mixture of experience, pace and young attacking talent to call upon.

It is a much healthier situation than having to make do without Isak, Szoboszlai and Gakpo altogether.

Liverpool’s starting XI looks strong

Liverpool line up as follows:

Alisson; Araújo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Muñoz; Wirtz, Barcola, Isak.

Virgil van Dijk returns to the defence, with Jérémy Jacquet alongside him and Ronald Araújo at right-back.

For me, that back four has the potential to give Liverpool a solid foundation. Jacquet has impressed, Van Dijk brings leadership and experience, and Araújo offers defensive strength on the right.

Further forward, Wirtz and Barcola will be looking to provide the creativity and movement to support Isak.

There is plenty of quality in this team. The challenge is making it work together consistently.

Now Liverpool need to turn the boost into a result

I’m not going to pretend that getting three players back automatically guarantees a Liverpool victory.

Brentford are a difficult opponent, particularly at home, and Liverpool will have to earn this one.

But the team news has certainly improved my mood going into the game.

Isak starts. Szoboszlai starts. Gakpo is available if needed.

That gives Iraola more options, more quality and a much stronger attacking hand than he had available over the last couple of matches.

After the disappointment against Manchester City, Liverpool need a positive response. They need to start with intensity, move the ball quickly and take their chances when they arrive.

The excuses are beginning to disappear. Now it’s time for Liverpool to deliver.

Three important players are back in the picture, and that is a huge boost.

Let’s hope they can make it count at Brentford.

Jamie (The Kopite View)