Botev Vratsa Overview

Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has issued a public challenge to his forward line, demanding they provide more support to a midfield that has come under heavy fire. The Reds boss is looking for an immediate response after his side were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Fulham at Anfield on Saturday.

Liverpool’s underwhelming start to the new campaign has already sparked concerns that the Reds could be facing a significant uphill battle to reclaim their place at Europe’s top table. Despite the high-profile arrival of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain, the French star has been warned that he must transform his style of play to survive the rigours of the Premier League.

Virgil van Dijk is preparing for another crucial face-to-face meeting with newly-appointed Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez to determine his international future. The 35-year-old Liverpool captain, who is also navigating the final year of his club contract, remains eager to lead his country towards Euro 2028.

Liverpool will not be “quick to sell” Florian Wirtz despite the £116 million ($157m) midfielder’s Premier League struggles, former Reds star Jermaine Pennant has told GOAL. Those on Merseyside cannot wait forever for a lavish addition to come good, but patience will be shown as a painful financial hit would be taken if an expensive experiment were to be written off.