Andoni Iraola demands more from Alexander Isak after Liverpool edge past Bournemouth

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has called on Alexander Isak to improve his contribution after the striker’s goal secured a 1-0 Premier League victory at Bournemouth.

Isak scored in the 57th minute, registering his fourth league goal of the season after Cody Gakpo’s cross created uncertainty in the Bournemouth defence. The Sweden international has already scored more Premier League goals in Liverpool’s opening five matches this campaign than he managed throughout the whole of the previous season.

However, Iraola said the forward must offer more to Liverpool’s wider attacking performance.

“He took the chance after a quiet afternoon – and that’s what a striker’s job is like,” Iraola said.

“He had a couple of situations, a cross he didn’t hit properly, one when his control wasn’t right and then the goal.

“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 result was particularly significant for Iraola on his return to Bournemouth, where he spent three seasons before joining Liverpool after leading the Cherries into Europe for the first time.

Liverpool had two extra days of rest before the match, with Bournemouth having played Real Sociedad in the Europa League on Thursday. Despite that advantage, the visitors found it difficult to establish control in the early stages.

Iraola acknowledged he was dissatisfied with Liverpool’s opening to the game.

“I was disappointed with the first 20, 25 minutes. I think we didn’t start the game with the intensity it requires,” he said.

“To win here is very difficult, I know it very well. Normally Bournemouth starts really strong, and it took us this 20, 25 minutes until we matched a little bit this level.

“From there I think at the end of the first half and the second half we played better. Better situations with the ball, and we could win the game.”

Isak’s finish was enough to settle a closely fought contest, but Iraola’s assessment highlighted the areas Liverpool must improve. He wants his side to spend more time playing in the opposition half, retain possession in more meaningful areas and provide their centre-forward with better opportunities to influence matches.

Liverpool’s next men’s fixture is against Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, October 11.