Liverpool Coach Andoni Iraola has refused to dwell on controversial refereeing decisions arsenalinsisting that his focus is firmly on the Champions League before his side trip to Istanbul.
The Reds are looking to bounce back from their Premier League defeat to the Gunners and maintain their perfect record in Europe, having picked up nine points from their opening three Champions League games.
Iraola believes there are many positives to take from Arsenal’s performance, but has urged his players to improve their movement in the opposition area.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League game, Iraola was asked if he had asked the PGMOL for clarification on decisions made during the defeat to Arsenal.
“I didn’t ask for explanations. I told you what I think about the plays, but honestly I don’t have time,” he said.
“I am preparing for this game, focusing on the opposition and how to prepare the team for tomorrow.
“It’s hard when you lose, but I’m happy with a lot of things from the other day,” he explained.
“Still we need to improve, especially attacking in the box. Many times we had the numbers there but we didn’t make the right runs.
“We put pressure on Arsenal, they defended well but I liked a lot of things.”
The Liverpool manager is aiming for a fourth straight Champions League win in Istanbul
Liverpool return to Istanbul, the city where they overturned a three-goal deficit against AC Milan to win the 2005 Champions League final.
Iraola acknowledged the city’s importance to Liverpool’s history but warned his players face a tough European task.
“Istanbul will always be very special for Liverpool. It’s hard to find a more important night,” he said.
“Tomorrow will not be easy, you talk about statistics, especially about English teams that play here. They have very good players and a very good squad, they know how to play in this competition. We have to start strong in the game.”
“We want to continue as we did in the Champions League, three games and nine points, it’s a good opportunity to reach 12 points and then finish in the top eight,” added Iraola.
“The Champions League away is very difficult.”