Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has been speaking to the media ahead of the Reds' Premier League opener against Newcastle at St. James' Park on Sunday — his first competitive game in charge
Andoni Iraola is preparing for his first Premier League game in charge of Liverpool
Andoni Iraola is preparing for his first Premier League game in charge of Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola insists he does not anticipate Newcastle's approach changing dramatically under Matthias Jaissle, though he acknowledges the vital role his analysis team will play ahead of Sunday's Premier League curtain-raiser.
Both Jaissle and Iraola will take the reins at their respective clubs for the first time in a competitive game at St. James' Park on Sunday, as a new league campaign gets underway. While Iraola brings considerable Premier League expertise from his time at Bournemouth, this will represent Jaissle's maiden venture into the division, having previously plied his trade in Austria and Saudi Arabia.
The Liverpool head coach says he is well acquainted with what the new Magpies boss is capable of, and believes the tactical approach will not differ greatly from the high-pressing game Newcastle perfected under Eddie Howe.
READ MORE: Andoni Iraola names Liverpool star who could fill in for Alexander Isak
Nevertheless, with so many new faces across the league this season, the contribution of the analytics staff is paramount in establishing what lies ahead.
"I think Matthias, we knew him from before, but first game, you over-analyze everything," Iraola said in his pre-match media briefing. "We don't have so many friendlies to reference, but in the end, it doesn't change the style too much.
"They will be strong in transitions, fast, physical, atmosphere will be strong, so not an easy to be playing first game. We have to be ready.
Alexander Isak is heading back to Newcastle for the first time
Alexander Isak is heading back to Newcastle for the first time(Image: Getty Images)
"We have seen lots of changes of managers, we face a lot first few games. It's an extra part of the job to do - analyzing how they played in previous clubs, even certain situations, how we can use things they have been doing.
"We are getting to know each other. We want to arrive in our best form. We are ready for when the competition starts. The analysts are very important for us."
Among the numerous talking points surrounding Sunday's fixture, Alexander Isak's return to Tyneside has been somewhat overshadowed thus far.
Nevertheless, the Swedish forward is certain to receive a frosty welcome from the Newcastle supporters following the manner of his departure to Liverpool a year ago.
Iraola has expressed confidence in his striker's ability to handle the pressure, while outlining his expectations for the season ahead.
"I suppose it will be a special for the former club when you play them in their stadium, same when I go to Bournemouth," he added. "You always want to do well and everyone will be motivated. Same for Alex.
"He's an important player for us, in a very good place, training every day, adding minutes, played a good World Cup with Sweden. I want to keep him there as much as we can. We know his level, he will score the goals. He will give us a lot of things.
"My fight with him, the instructions, is off the ball. He wants to score but I try not to judge the strikers if they have or haven't scored."