Iraola: Barcola will definitely come on in the second half, we want to be cautious

Before the Premier League third-round away match against Ipswich Town, Liverpool head coach Iraola gave an interview to Sky Sports at the stadium.

We have of course been talking about Barcola all the time. Did you consider starting him tonight?

To be honest, I did have that idea. I think he looks in good shape in training, but the fact is that he did not play a single match in pre-season. However, I think he is ready. I am sure we will bring him on in the second half, but we will still be cautious, because you do not want him to get injured right at the beginning, so I think it is reasonable for him to start on the bench.

He has already been very positive and enthusiastic in his interview with Liverpool media. How has he been getting along with the other players in training?

I think he is a very intelligent player and he understands the game. He is relatively shy and does not talk much. He is also working on improving his English. Obviously, he now has his own friends, such as Yacine and Ekitike, and he feels more comfortable when he is with them. But I think his first week has been really good, his training form has been excellent, and I hope he can make a good impact as soon as he comes in.