Liverpool transfer news: Andoni Iraola's "correct" response to defensive midfield signing after Newcastle draw fuels concern

Andoni Iraola has insisted that Liverpool can improve defensively without signing a midfielder following criticism of Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.

The Reds were fortunate to draw 2-2 with Newcastle United on Sunday, with the club needing Szoboszlai to score a 99th-minute penalty to rescue a Premier League point.

Fans and pundits were keen to point out the role that both the Hungarian and his partner Gravenberch played in the two goals Newcastle scored, arguing that the Merseysiders must sign a midfielder before the closure of the transfer window on September 1.

However, Iraola insisted that the Reds do not have to delve into the transfer market, telling reporters after the match: "It’s not just personnel. I understand that Ryan Gravenberch is basically the number six and is on the edge of their box [before Newcastle’s first goal].

"We have to adapt as a team to these situations. We have to know these situations can happen. For the first one I think we should just finish the great chance we created. We were on the edge of the box with a clear situation to shoot, but we didn’t and then you have to give credit to Elanga for winning the race.

"It’s not just because one person is playing there [as a holding midfielder]. It’s something we have to correct between a lot of players."

Reports have suggested that Liverpool are content to head into the rest of the season with their midfield group as it is, and Iraola's comments will no doubt worry supporters that feel midfield is a weakness.

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Why Liverpool should sign a defensive midfielder before deadline day

All of Liverpool's current options for the middle of the pitch have qualities that would make them strong partners for a more defensive-minded midfielder.

Gravenberch's carrying would be more threatening if he was less restricted in a deeper role, while Szoboszlai's tendency to leave gaps when pressing would be less damaging.

Alexis Mac Allister's lack of physicality could be masked by a partner that is willing to sit deeper, and it would allow him to create havoc in the middle and final third.

Even Trey Nyoni would benefit from playing next to a defensive presence, though it remains to be seen if Liverpool will act in the market to strengthen their squad.

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How can Liverpool improve defensively?

If the Reds fail to add to their midfield, then their best course of action could be to throw Nyoni into the XI considering he is naturally intelligent without the ball.

Szoboszlai or Gravenberch should be chosen to play next to him, though perhaps the latter could move to right-back in order to take Jeremie Frimpong out of the team.

The only problem with that approach is that it would leave Mac Allister as the only realistic depth for midfield, but the Reds may not have any other option if they refuse to sign a midfielder.