The Iraola Invincibles are no more. As Rayan Cherki’s impudently brilliant goal ensured that Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan remain the only two permanent Liverpool managers to go unbeaten in their first six league games in charge, a longer undefeated run was ended. Andoni Iraola had not tasted defeat in anything since a penalty shootout at Newcastle nine months ago, and not within 90 minutes since the third day of the year.
For those who like to affix asterisks – and they can abound at the moment – his Liverpool have not lost with a full complement of players. It was 0-0 when Ryan Gravenberch was sent off against Manchester City, 3-0 at the final whistle. “I think the analysis is quite clear,” said Iraola. “I think we played two different games: one until the red card, and one from the red card until the end.”
