Andoni Iraola explains ruthless call to keep Jeremy Jacquet on in Liverpool win at Ipswich | OneFootball

Andoni Iraola said he kept Jeremy Jacquet on despite flirting with a red card, believing the defender had to learn under pressure as Liverpool won 2-0 at Ipswich.

"For any center-back to play alongside Virgil is a lesson and a masterclass. Today, there was a moment in the second half when I had a doubt, but I think he has to suffer and go through those periods," he told Sky Sports. "He finished the game well and will slowly keep building the fitness."

The 21-year-old was booked in the 52nd minute for a high foot on Emersonn, then narrowly avoided a second yellow after dragging the Brazilian down as Ipswich broke. Iraola resisted the usual safety-first change and backed the youngster to hold his discipline.

"Jeremy played his first full game. Physically, he could not finish the first two games."

Beyond the cautions, Jacquet read danger sharply, blocking an Emersonn effort after Leif Davis headed an Abdul Fatawu cross back into the box. His understanding with Virgil van Dijk, Ronald Araujo and Milos Kerkez tightened, laying the base for Alexander Isak to settle it at the other end.

He also threaded a crisp vertical pass to find Florian Wirtz, whose volley was saved, underlining the ball-playing profile Iraola wants.

The clean sheet at Portman Road should lift Jacquet as Liverpool juggle domestic duties with Europe, with Atletico Madrid visiting on Wednesday. Completing 90 minutes gives Iraola extra room to rotate across his defensive unit.

Source: Goal.com

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