Liverpool Coach Andoni Iraola has warned his players that they cannot afford to travel against their main rivals after coming behind to beat Villarreal in the Champions League.
The Reds recovered from a difficult first half to win at Anfield, but Iraola was frustrated by his side’s defensive mistakes and admitted they have conceded too many goals this season.
Speaking on Amazon Prime after the game, the Liverpool boss praised his side’s response while insisting there was still plenty of room for improvement.
“A lot happened today. They were much better than us in the first half and we were much better in the second,” said Iraola.
“When we were under pressure, we responded well. When we relaxed, we made mistakes. You can’t relax against very good opposition. I appreciate the win.
“We have to know that if we don’t go to the limit it will be difficult. We are facing very good teams. It is good to come back but we have started to concede too many goals this season.”
Iraola praises the development of Rio Ngumoha
One positive for Liverpool was the performance of 18-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who continues to earn chances with Iraola and registered two assists on Tuesday night.
The manager believes the youngster is becoming a more rounded player, especially after adapting to a role on the right side.
“I’m very happy with Rio. He’s trying to improve everything we’re trying to correct,” Iraola said.
“He’s playing a lot more on the right and he’s adapted really well. He’s going inside more. He struggled defensively in the first half, the second half was a lot better. He’s becoming a more complete player. He’s still only 18.”
