'We thought it would work' - Andoni Iraola defends Bradley Barcola decision after Liverpool loss

Liverpool lost 3-2 to Fenerbahce in the Champions League after Iraola started Barcola as a striker in an unfamiliar role.

Liverpool suffered their first Champions League group-stage defeat, losing 3-2 to Fenerbahce in Istanbul. Manager Andoni Iraola started winger Bradley Barcola in a central striker role, a decision he defended after the match despite the loss.

Trey Nyoni gave Liverpool an early lead, but Mason Greenwood's free-kick deflected off Jeremy Jacquet to level the score. Alexander Isak, brought on as a substitute in the second half, headed Liverpool ahead with his first touch, but Fenerbahce scored twice in six minutes through Archie Brown and Vedat Muriqi to seal the victory.

Iraola explained he chose Barcola up front to keep fresher players like Victor Munoz and Rio Ngumoha on the wings, and to give Isak limited minutes after recent exertion. "We thought it would work well because I think Bradley, in terms of speed, the match-ups could be good for him," Iraola said, though he acknowledged Barcola has been more effective playing wide. The manager made five changes overall and insisted the lineup was not the primary reason for the defeat. Liverpool face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday in their final Premier League match before the international break.