Liverpool’s Biggest Problem Exposed After Newcastle Draw
Liverpool may have escaped St James’ Park with a point, but their dramatic 2-2 draw with Newcastle United has exposed a problem Andoni Iraola cannot afford to ignore.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s 99th-minute penalty rescued Liverpool from defeat in Iraola’s first Premier League game in charge. Cody Gakpo had earlier cancelled out Anthony Elanga’s opener, before Joe Willock restored Newcastle’s lead.
However, beyond the late drama, Liverpool’s vulnerability when possession was lost was arguably the biggest concern.
Newcastle repeatedly found space in transition, with Liverpool’s midfield struggling to provide enough protection in front of the defence. Jamie Carragher was particularly critical of the midfield, while analysis after the game also highlighted Liverpool’s defensive structure and vulnerability to counter-attacks.
Iraola himself admitted that Liverpool started the match badly and need to adapt. The new manager is attempting to introduce an aggressive, high-intensity style, but Sunday’s performance showed that the system will require time and discipline before it becomes fully effective.
The concern is not simply about the defenders. Liverpool’s midfield balance could be the bigger issue. When the Reds pushed forward, there were moments when Newcastle were able to break through the middle too easily, leaving the back line exposed.
That could make the final days of the transfer window extremely important.
Liverpool have been linked with further attacking reinforcements, but recent analysis suggests that Iraola may need additional protection in midfield, as well as possible defensive additions, if the team is going to compete consistently at the highest level.
The positive is that Liverpool showed tremendous character. Twice they fell behind and twice they fought back, with Szoboszlai keeping their unbeaten start alive with a composed penalty deep into stoppage time.
But one point at Newcastle should not hide the warning signs.
Iraola has inherited an exciting Liverpool side, but Sunday showed that the Reds still have a soft underbelly. If Liverpool want to challenge for major honours, fixing their midfield balance and defensive transitions could be just as important as signing another forward.
