Massive transfer win: Andoni Iraola given keys to transform Liverpool

Andoni Iraola has been given the keys to fix a massive problem at Liverpool. Let's see if he can do it.

Liverpool have a transfer problem and it's cost them a centre-back this season. Ifeanyi Ndukwe won't be able to play a role at the club and will need to depart on loan somewhere.

That's a blow as Ndukwe has impressed in pre-season so far. Liverpool, though, lack space thanks to failing to qualify for expanded ESC places.

The ESC program is there to allow clubs to use talented young players who don't otherwise qualify for work permits. It came in post-Brexit, with British clubs suddenly unable to bring in young players who aren't internationals.

The thing is, though, that ESC spots require clubs to have already given minutes to players trained in England. Liverpool failed miserably on that last season - Curtis Jones and Jeremie Frimpong were essentially the only English-trained players to get significant game time.

As a result, Liverpool only get one spot and that'll be filled by Mor Talla Ndiaye. The keys are with Andoni Iraola to fix the issue, then.

We're hoping to see a significant rise in homegrown minutes this season. Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni are two of those who should benefit greatly, while Lewis Koumas and Will Wright have outside chances of getting more time. Harvey Elliott is another who, if he stays, will get time.

And that would be a major boost for Liverpool. Liverpool can open doors to more youth signings from abroad if they're willing to commit more game time to homegrown players - something they actually prioritised under Jurgen Klopp.

Arne Slot actually seemed against the idea, such were the lack of minutes handed out. The mentality set the club backwards and now Iraola has a chance to fix the issue immediately.