Liverpool finally delivered the kind of performance their supporters had been waiting for, sweeping aside Ipswich Town 2-0 at Portman Road and securing Andoni Iraola’s first victory as manager.
The Reds came flying out of the blocks, with Alexander Isak producing a devastating nine-minute spell to score twice and put Liverpool firmly in control. Both goals were created by Cody Gakpo, who once again proved just how important he could be to this revamped Liverpool attack.
Liverpool looked sharper, quicker and far more dangerous in the opening stages. Isak’s movement caused constant problems, Gakpo was outstanding, Florian Wirtz added creativity and Victor Muñoz provided plenty of energy on the flank.
Even the defensive side of the performance offered plenty of encouragement. Ronald Araujo made an impressive Premier League debut, while Virgil van Dijk produced another composed display as Liverpool recorded their first clean sheet in months.
But despite the impressive team performance, not everyone escaped criticism.
One Liverpool star in particular left supporters frustrated with his display, with fans questioning whether he is currently doing enough to justify his place in such a talented starting XI.
The criticism is especially interesting because Liverpool have suddenly developed serious competition for attacking positions. Bradley Barcola made his debut from the bench, while Gakpo’s form has been exceptional and Isak is beginning to rediscover the ruthless finishing that made Liverpool spend a British-record fee on him.
That means every player now has to deliver.
There is simply no room for passengers in Iraola’s Liverpool.
The manager has already shown that he wants intensity, aggression and movement from his players, and the victory over Ipswich demonstrated what can happen when those qualities come together.
However, Liverpool’s second-half performance also exposed a potential weakness. After dominating the opening period, the Reds became less threatening after the break and registered only one shot on target in the second half. Ipswich grew into the contest and created opportunities before Liverpool managed to protect their advantage.
So while the three points were exactly what Liverpool needed, Iraola still has plenty to fix.
For the player facing the loudest criticism, the message from supporters is simple: the competition is getting stronger, the expectations are enormous and impressive performances from teammates are making it increasingly difficult to hide an underwhelming display.
Isak may have stolen the headlines.
Gakpo may have earned the praise.
Araujo may have surprised everyone.
But one Liverpool star left Portman Road with plenty to prove.
