Andoni Iraola has confirmed that he hopes to use Bradley Barcola in the second half for Liverpool's clash against Ipswich Town. The Reds face the Tractor Boys at Portman Road on Friday night in their next Premier League fixture, in what is their first since the transfer window closed.
Barcola on the bench for debut
Barcola signed for Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £123 million, and could make his debut during Liverpool's match against Ipswich. However, Iraola has named Barcola on the bench, but has confirmed that he hopes to give the France international some minutes later in the game.
“Honestly, I was tempted [to start Barcola]. He has looked good in training but hasn't played a minute in pre-season,” Iraola told Sky Sports before kick-off at Portman Road.
“I think he is ready, definitely I think we will use him in the second half, but with some precaution because we don't want to lose him straight away. I think it makes sense to have him on the bench.”
Iraola praises new signing's adaptation
Iraola added: “I think he is a smart player, he understands the game, he is quite shy and doesn't speak a lot.
“He is improving his English, he has his French now with [Jeremy] Jacquet and [Hugo] Ekitike, he is more comfortable with. But I think he has been really good for the first week, he has trained really well and I hope he does well straight away.”
There will be more to follow. We'll bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
