Iraola: Isak will produce numbers if fit and available

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola expressed satisfaction with both performance and result after his side won 2-0 at Ipswich Town on Friday night in the Premier League.

Alexander Isak scored twice inside the opening nine minutes at Portman Road to settle the contest early. It was Liverpool's first league win of the season.

"With Alex, if he's fit, if he's available, if he's in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers," Iraola said. "My demands with Alex will not be about the goals, probably. It will be about other things so we can play well and if we play well, we are in good positions, the goals will come."

Cody Gakpo registered two assists and Iraola was equally emphatic in his assessment of the Dutchman. "I have no doubt with Cody. He has been very good all the pre-season, has started very well this season, producing numbers," the head coach said.

Bradley Barcola made his Liverpool debut as a second-half substitute, playing approximately 30 minutes on his first appearance since the World Cup. Iraola noted Barcola had not featured in pre-season and cautioned that match demands differ significantly from training.

"When he carries the ball, I think you can feel this threat," Iraola said of Barcola. "30 minutes is going to be good for his fitness, for his build-up, and we will continue because now we play a lot of games."

Iraola also acknowledged personal relief at securing a first victory, referencing that it took him 10 Premier League games to win during his previous spell at AFC Bournemouth. "Definitely we couldn't lose any more today and I'm happy because I believe we controlled quite well the game," he said.