Liverpool have one area to target to fix the silliness

Liverpool's midfield lacks defensive discipline; Iraola needs a holding midfielder to fix the chaotic structure that leaves Van Dijk exposed.

Liverpool have become entertaining under Andoni Iraola but their midfield structure is fundamentally flawed. The manager's preferred 4-2-3-1 formation leaves no natural holding midfielder, as Gravenberch, Mac Allister and Szoboszlai all roam forward freely rather than providing defensive cover like Alex Scott and Tyler Adams did at Bournemouth.

This creates a "farcical situation" where the best option for the holding role is a 19-year-old academy graduate. Virgil van Dijk is left choosing between stepping up to cover gaps and risking being caught high, or staying deep and conceding 30 yards of space. The problem is compounded when Liverpool face deep defences and become frustrated, inviting further forward runs and larger holes.

The issue is evident in results: Liverpool have conceded eight goals in their four highest-possession games this season. When they had less possession against Crystal Palace and played on the counter, they became effective. Iraola must find or develop a midfielder willing to play the disciplined, selfless holding role his system requires.