Iraola rules out Gakpo and Isak for Man City clash but drops hint on Liverpool's central striking options

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that his two most productive attacking outlets this season, Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak, will be unavailable for Sunday's heavyweight clash against Manchester City. However, the Spaniard reassured fans that neither injury is long-term. In their absence, Iraola hinted that young prospect Lewis Koumas could feature, while Bradley Barcola, who has also operated down the middle, offers another option to start as the central striker.

Like many of his Premier League counterparts in recent days, Iraola was asked to open his pre-match press conference by addressing Manchester City's ongoing off-pitch legal situation.

"I think uncertainty is never good for anyone involved, but the process is ongoing, so we have to be patient. We aren't aware of all the details, so I don't think it's right to give an opinion. They have spent a lot of time analyzing everything. My view doesn't carry much weight because I haven't looked into it to that degree. I've said it before – nobody knows what will happen. We just need to focus on Liverpool and being the best team we can be."

"We have a tough run of fixtures ahead before the next international break – we're facing top-four rivals, Chelsea in the League Cup, and Champions League games. Four matches in nine or ten days – I think that will tell us a lot about ourselves. After this intense period, we will know exactly where we stand."

"Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo are ruled out. Unfortunately, they aren't ready after picking up knocks during the international break. In terms of timelines, Gakpo has an ankle issue and it's all about pain management. He is working hard, but he won't make Sunday. Isak has a thigh problem and will return when he feels ready. Neither looks like a long-term setback, but neither will feature on Sunday. We trust Koumas, as you know. He has been a great surprise and has shown he is ready. We also have other players who can cover those positions, so we will make our decision accordingly."

"Hugo Ekitike is also out – another very good forward whose return I'm looking forward to. We might get Chiesa back, who hasn't played competitive minutes yet but performed well over the international break. In terms of the natural number nine role, Koumas is currently our only specialist available, though we have wingers who have played through the middle before. We haven't had a lot of time to train with the complete group."

"I don't think Barcola is going through a dip in form. When it comes to wingers, there's often an assumption that if they don't score, they haven't played well, but you have to look at the overall performance. That is what matters to me, and I want him to know that. Bradley was away on international duty, and I want him in the right positions to finish the chances we create. He has played on the left and as a central striker, so he can cover all three forward positions."

Iraola was also pleased to confirm that Jeremy Jacquet will be available, having shaken off an issue that saw him sit out France's latest match.

"He has obviously been performing very well. I'm personally delighted for him, as making your France debut is always a major milestone. He played well and should be proud, but there is still a long road ahead. He is in good shape physically and ready to play. He only missed the last international game as a precaution. Everything will be fine, and we have training tomorrow."

Iraola also shared his expectations ahead of the showdown with the Premier League leaders.

"It's an exciting game at home at Anfield against the league leaders. They've won every match so far. They will come here to win, and so will we. We have to be ready and feed off the support from our fans. I hope we perform at the level required. Whatever happens on Sunday, it's still too early to draw overarching conclusions. Only five matches have been played, but we relish testing ourselves against sides like City and showing what we're capable of. It's a huge occasion for everyone involved."

"Whenever you play in a fixture like this, you know the atmosphere will be electric and special. We want to give the fans every reason to get behind us. When they see the team fighting on the pitch, we can create an even better atmosphere. Is it a 'must-not-lose' match? No, in the Premier League nowadays, every game is tough and crucial. The level of competition is exceptionally high. You always want to win against direct rivals competing for the same spots, even at this early stage."

"The challenge of this game is so massive that the players aren't distracted by anything else – they know they need to be at their absolute best. Their focus is firmly on the match. Naturally, everyone has their own opinions on external matters, but the group is completely dialed in."

"They are a top side, but we are a top side as well. Let's see where we're at. I'm really looking forward to it," Iraola added.