Alexander Isak’s winning goal secured Liverpool a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth, but Andoni Iraola warned that the striker must contribute more to the team’s attacking play.
Isak struck in the 57th minute at the Vitality Stadium, the ground where he made his name before leaving Bournemouth during the summer. The finish proved decisive in a hard-fought contest.
Iraola demands more from Alexander Isak
Despite Isak’s latest goal, Iraola said the forward needed to help Liverpool spend more time in the opposition half and build possession closer to the Bournemouth penalty area.
“He had a couple of situations – a cross he didn’t hit properly, one when his control wasn’t right and then the goal,” Iraola said after the match.
He added: “But he has to help us to be closer to the box, to play in the opposition half and to have meaningful possession.
“Then, if the team is playing there, he will receive the rewards in terms of goals. We need that level so that we can play better.”
The comments underline the difference between Isak’s efficiency in front of goal and the wider involvement Iraola expects from him during Liverpool’s attacking moves.
The Sweden international has now scored four goals in five Premier League appearances this season, matching his league total from the previous campaign.
His latest effort helped Liverpool maintain their unbeaten start and claim a third successive clean sheet. Iraola will nevertheless expect the team’s attacking control to improve as fixtures in the Premier League, Carabao Cup and Champions League increase.
