‘Just cramps’: Andoni Iraola eases Bradley Barcola injury concerns

Liverpool began their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at Anfield on Wednesday.

Marcus Llorente gave Atletico an early lead before Dominik Szoboszlai restored parity for the Reds. Alexis Mac Allister scored the winner.

Bradley Barcola was handed his full debut but came off with an injury concern on the hour mark and was replaced by Victor Munoz.

Manager Andoni Iraola eased concerns about the France international’s fitness.

“No, just cramps, especially with Bradley – we are kind of rushing him a little bit,” Iraola told TNT Sports.

“We wanted him there, but we decided to say ‘give us what you have’. That’s the most he has. Let’s see how they recover for the next one.”

Barcola had not played during pre-season before joining Liverpool. He only made a substitute appearance against Ipswich Town last Friday.

He missed a big chance to open his goalscoring account for Liverpool, dragging his effort wide after being put through on goal by Florian Wirtz.

The Frenchman did not make a key pass or complete a dribble, while his only attempted cross was unsuccessful.

Iraola should deploy him on his preferred left flank in his next outing. Teenager Rio Ngumoha can provide cover for the summer signing.

Cody Gakpo and Victor Munoz are useful right-wing options. Both have impressed in that position, although they are natural left-wingers.

Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Fulham on Saturday will give Iraola another opportunity to find the right balance on the flanks.