Iraola Sheds Light on Barcola and Gakpo's Condition

Liverpool's new multi-million-pound signing, Bradley Barcola, caused concern among Reds fans after he went down clutching his left calf about an hour into the match against Atletico Madrid and was subsequently substituted. However, manager Andoni Iraola clarified that it was merely a cramp and the Frenchman is fine.

Cody Gakpo, who missed yesterday's game due to adductor issues, also isn't seriously injured, but Iraola couldn't guarantee his readiness for the Fulham match.

When asked if he was worried about Barcola's condition, the Spaniard responded: “No. It's just a cramp, no injury. For him, it's about building up his physical fitness. Until now, we didn't know how much he could play because he didn't get any minutes during pre-season with PSG. He only played half an hour the other day, and we had some question marks about how long he could stay on the pitch. Now we know more. I'm very happy because he had two very clear opportunities, going one-on-one with the goalkeeper. He didn't score, but I want him to be there, to be in those positions. He needs to make the difference by getting into those positions.

I don't know if Cody will be able to play against Fulham. I hope so, but I don't know. He doesn't have a serious injury, but after the last game, he felt something in both adductors. We expected him to be ready for today (editor's note: for yesterday), but it wasn't possible. It's nothing serious, but the problem is that we play again in two and a half days. Now we will recover and see how Bradley and Cody are and if they can get some minutes. If not, it will be an opportunity for Rio and Victor. I think everyone put in a great effort today. The match against Fulham is very important, so I hope Cody will be with us, but I can't guarantee it,” said Iraola, adding that Milos Kerkez's situation is similar to Barcola's, and the Hungarian is not injured after yesterday's clash.