Liverpool’s first two Premier League matches of the season have ended 2-2, despite Iraola’s side controlling 60% possession against Newcastle last week and 70% against Nottingham Forest.
In both games, Liverpool fell behind and have yet to lead in the Premier League this season. That has made life more difficult for Alexander Isak, who was a major threat in Newcastle’s counter-attacking system. Against teams defending in low blocks, the challenge is different.
Why Liverpool’s possession has not produced results
The issue also reflects a broader problem for Iraola. Last season, his Bournemouth team won only four of the 19 Premier League matches in which they had the majority of possession. They won nine of the other 19.
The Cherries were known for their counter-pressing approach and their effectiveness in transition, but they also failed to win any match in which they had more than 58.8% possession.
In effect, Iraola’s side performed better when they had less of the ball — a situation that is unlikely to occur regularly now that he is at Anfield.
“As an attacking force it isn’t flowing for Liverpool,” said Hart. “With the physical nature of the Premier League and with them not 100% sure on what they are doing at the moment, teams are stomping all over them.”
“It’s going to take a whole lot of work from Iraola and his staff on the training pitch, but he is a top coach and they have top players.”
Asked whether he sets targets for the season, Isak said: “Not really. I think every striker wants to score [in] every game he plays. Obviously that’s difficult but [we take] each game at a time.”
That is one way to approach the situation, and Isak’s performance was certainly an improvement on his display against Newcastle. However, the striker will know privately that he can — and must — perform better.
