Alexander Isak scored twice inside the opening 10 minutes as Liverpool secured a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town at Portman Road.
The Sweden international produced two stunning finishes to settle Friday night’s Premier League clash and hand Andoni Iraola his first competitive victory as Liverpool boss.
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Cody Gakpo assisted both of Isak’s goals, with the result moving the unbeaten Reds onto five points from their opening three league games. Bradley Barcola also made his Liverpool debut, coming on as a second-half substitute.
Here are the five things we learnt from the matchday three encounter against Ipswich Town.
1. Liverpool made the right decision keeping Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo showed why it would have been a mistake for Liverpool to sell him. The Netherlands international was the subject of a rejected bid from Manchester City.
Gakpo provided two assists for Alexander Isak, who took his tally to three goals in three league games. The 27-year-old is expected to remain at Liverpool until at least January, and until then, Reds fans will be hoping to enjoy more from the Dutchman.
2. Ronald Araujo solid at right-back in his first start for Liverpool
The signing of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo raised eyebrows among Liverpool fans, but after an impressive performance at right-back, the centre-back will be holding his head high.
Araujo replaced Jeremie Frimpong in the starting XI and was rock-solid at right-back, making several timely clearances for the Reds. He will now be expected to keep his place when Liverpool face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League next Wednesday.
3. Alexander Isak is ready to lead Liverpool into the post-Mohamed Salah era
Alexander Isak demonstrated why Liverpool spent £125m to sign him from Newcastle United last summer. After being hampered by injuries last season, Isak looks like a man on a mission this campaign.
He now has three goals in three league games, and Liverpool will hope the 26-year-old can maintain this impressive form as the Reds target glory this season.
4. Alexis Mac Allister the heartbeat of Liverpool’s midfield
Alexis Mac Allister shone once again at the heart of midfield alongside Dominik Szoboszlai. The Argentina international was heavily linked with an exit, but he appears to be doing his talking on the pitch.
The 27-year-old was a class above his teammates, and Andoni Iraola will hope he can maintain this level of performance throughout the season.
5. A welcome clean sheet
Liverpool had conceded four goals in their opening two league games against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. However, at Portman Road, the Reds’ defence stood firm to secure their first clean sheet of the season.
Andoni Iraola will be pleased with his side’s defensive display as Liverpool look to compete for silverware this season despite their slow start.
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