Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has refused to dwell on controversial refereeing decisions against Arsenal, insisting his focus is firmly on the Champions League ahead of his side’s 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 collected nine points from their opening three Champions League matches.
Iraola believes there were plenty of positives to take from the Arsenal performance but has urged his players to improve their movement in the opposition penalty area.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League fixture, Iraola was asked whether he had sought clarification from PGMOL over decisions made during the defeat to Arsenal.
“I didn’t ask for an explanation. I told you what I think about the plays but honestly I don’t have time,” he said.
“Been preparing for this game, focusing on the opposition and how to prepare the team for tomorrow.
“It is difficult when you lose but I am happy with a lot of things from the other day,” he explained.
“Still we need to improve, especially attacking in the box. A lot of times we had the numbers there but not making the proper runs.
“We put Arsenal under pressure, they defended well but I liked a lot of things.”
Liverpool boss targets fourth straight Champions League win in Istanbul
Liverpool return to Istanbul, the city where they famously overturned a three-goal deficit against AC Milan to win the 2005 Champions League final.
Iraola acknowledged the significance of the city to Liverpool’s history but warned that his players face a difficult European assignment.
“Istanbul is always going to be very special for Liverpool. It is difficult to find a more important night,” he said.
“Tomorrow it won’t be easy, you talk about statistics, especially English teams playing 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 how we have done in the Champions League, three games and nine points, it is a good chance to get to 12 points and then finish in the top eight,” Iraola added.
“Champions League away is very difficult.”
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