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Andoni Iraola has given Liverpool supporters plenty to think about ahead of Sunday’s trip to Newcastle, with the manager discussing Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak, the transfer window and how quickly his squad is adapting to his methods. And perhaps the biggest takeaway from his latest press conference is that Iraola knows Liverpool still need more players. The manager wants to build a team capable of competing for everything, but he also recognises that there are areas of the squad where Liverpool simply don’t have enough options. Iraola confirms Gakpo can play as a No.9 One of the most interesting comments from Iraola concerned Cody Gakpo. The Liverpool boss confirmed that he sees the Dutchman as someone capable of playing through the middle. “Yes, I think Cody can play as a number nine.” Iraola explained that Liverpool haven’t used Gakpo there much during pre-season because they haven’t had enough natural wingers. Instead, they have prioritised getting Gakpo comfortable in his preferred position on the left. But Iraola has already been discussing the possibility of using him as a striker. And that could become particularly important throughout the season. Gakpo has previously played as a No.9 and offers Liverpool a completely different option from Alexander Isak. His ability to link play, attack the box and operate across the frontline gives Iraola plenty of tactical flexibility. Iraola admits Liverpool need more wingers This was perhaps the most significant part of the press conference from a transfer perspective. When asked what Liverpool need, Iraola was pretty clear. “Especially now on the wing because we don’t have enough players specific to play in those positions.” That is a very revealing admission. Liverpool have been heavily linked with attacking reinforcements throughout the summer, and Iraola’s comments suggest that adding another winger is clearly a priority. The manager also stressed that Liverpool need to remain open-minded about other positions. If an opportunity arises that can genuinely improve the squad, Iraola wants the club to consider it. Liverpool’s transfer window isn’t over This should reassure supporters who have been worried about Liverpool’s squad depth. Iraola isn’t sitting there believing his squad is perfect. He wants more. The manager wants specific players for the wings, while remaining open to strengthening elsewhere. That is particularly important with Liverpool competing across multiple competitions. The Premier League. Champions League. FA Cup. League Cup. Liverpool need enough quality to handle all of them. Isak returns to Newcastle Sunday’s game will obviously be a particularly interesting one for Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker will return to St James’ Park to face his former club. Iraola understands that it will be an emotional occasion. “It’s always special when you play against your ex-team in your stadium.” But the Liverpool manager expects Isak to be fully focused. And given this is the opening game of the Premier League season, there should be plenty of motivation on both sides. Imagine Isak scoring at St James’ Park on his Liverpool debut. That would be some way to begin his new chapter. Liverpool are still learning Iraola’s football Another important point was Iraola’s assessment of how quickly the squad is adapting to his methods. The manager believes Liverpool are already capable of competing and winning games. But he isn’t pretending everything is perfect. “We still can be a good team. That we need to improve, definitely, we will improve.” That’s probably the most realistic approach. Liverpool have undergone a significant change in playing style. The players are learning new movements, new pressing triggers and different responsibilities. That won’t happen overnight. But Iraola wants the improvement to happen quickly. The manager’s ambition is clear Perhaps the most exciting quote of the entire press conference was Iraola’s answer when asked about his expectations for the season. “I want to be a really good team.” And then: “I want to use the good players that I have in the best way, so they give us the chance to fight for everything.” That’s the mentality Liverpool supporters want to hear. He’s not setting a target of simply finishing in the top four. He’s not talking about rebuilding for two or three years. He wants Liverpool to compete for everything. But he knows more is needed The message from Iraola is actually quite simple. Liverpool have a very good squad. Liverpool can compete. But Liverpool can still improve. And the biggest immediate concern appears to be the wide positions. That’s why the ongoing pursuit of players such as Bradley Barcola, Yankuba Minteh and other attacking targets remains so important. Iraola has effectively confirmed what many supporters have been saying. Liverpool need more options. And with the transfer window still open, the manager wants the club to remain active. Now let’s see what happens at Newcastle Sunday’s trip to Newcastle will be the first real test of Iraola’s Liverpool. It will also be Isak’s emotional return to St James’ Park. Gakpo could potentially be used in multiple attacking roles. And Liverpool’s squad depth will immediately be tested. Iraola believes his team can compete. He believes they can improve. And most importantly, he wants Liverpool to fight for everything. Now it’s time to see whether the club can give him the squad capable of doing exactly that. Jamie (The Kopite View)