Iraola backs Nyoni with first Premier League start against Arsenal
The 19-year-old was selected ahead of Ryan Gravenberch, with Andoni Iraola citing his ball control and ability to read Arsenal's midfield movement.
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola picked Trey Nyoni for his first start in the Premier League against defending champions Arsenal at Anfield on November 1. Iraola said the teenager's work in possession and understanding of opposition movement had earned him the opportunity.
Speaking to Sky Sports before kickoff, Iraola expressed confidence in the 19-year-old's ability to handle Arsenal's rotating midfield players. Nyoni was chosen alongside Alexis Mac Allister, with the more experienced Ryan Gravenberch left out of the starting lineup.
Nyoni had previously appeared as a substitute 12 times in the league. His starting experience included the EFL Cup fourth-round match against Chelsea and Champions League games against LASK Linz and Villarreal.
The selection made Nyoni Liverpool's second teenager whose first league start for the club came against the titleholders. Raheem Sterling did so against Manchester City in 2012.
Dominik Szoboszlai was restricted to a place among the substitutes following another hamstring setback. Victor Munoz was also on the bench after a knee problem. Iraola indicated that both could play after halftime, describing their availability as giving Liverpool additional options.
A Liverpool victory would cut their gap to Arsenal and Manchester City to three points. Arsenal entered the fixture without a league win at Anfield since 2012.
