Liverpool's 2-1 win at Brentford on Saturday extended their unbeaten away run, but injuries continue to test the squad's depth, and the January transfer window is shaping up to be pivotal for head coach Andoni Iraola.
The victory, secured by Alexander Isak's winner, came despite a growing injury list that has sidelined key players. The Reds have taken seven points from tough away games at Newcastle United, Bournemouth, and Brentford, but concerns remain over the squad's fragility.
Injury Concerns Mount
Dominik Szoboszlai, Cody Gakpo, and Isak missed the Manchester City game, joining long-term absentees Conor Bradley and Hugo Ekitike. Now, Szoboszlai is injured again, and Jeremie Frimpong is the latest to be affected.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool rarely saw so many injuries to key attacking players, but the current squad is carrying too many, which could hurt their campaign. The midfield is a particular worry, with Szoboszlai sidelined for the coming games and Ryan Gravenberch expected to step up.
Gravenberch looked back to his best against Manchester City before his red card, but he is not a specialist No. 6. He excels further forward, carrying the ball and bringing forwards into play. With options running out, the midfield may need addressing when the transfer window opens.
Isak's Impact and Improvement Areas
Isak has been the match-winner for three straight away games, with a poacher's finish at Brentford. His all-round game was quiet, but his five goals in seven games show he is embracing the challenge of succeeding Mohamed Salah as the main marksman.
However, Isak needs to reduce the times he strays offside. Drifting into offside positions makes it too easy for centre-halves. He doesn't need to drop into midfield like Roberto Firmino; his game is about finishing, and he is a superb finisher.
Comparing Isak to Salah is unfair, but he must now take on the mantle of being Liverpool's primary scorer. If he can score at a rate of one in every two, he could reach 25 goals this season, a figure he should target.
January Transfers Crucial
The January window is vital for Liverpool to strengthen. Manchester City and Arsenal have stronger squads with more depth. While some say there is no value in January, Liverpool's history shows otherwise.
Luis Suarez, Virgil van Dijk, Daniel Sturridge, and Philippe Coutinho all arrived in January. If Liverpool can reach the New Year in a good position, they may be able to spend and bring in one or two players to help the push for the rest of the season.
