Iraola hails Lewis Koumas’ “contagious” spark as Liverpool’s young guns outwork Spurs in Carabao Cup win

Andoni Iraola has said Lewis Koumas brings a 'contagious' energy to the Liverpool side after an impressive performance against Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup.

Koumas made an impression as Liverpool booked their place in the fourth round with a 3-1 win over Spurs at Anfield on Tuesday night. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai sealed the win, though it was Koumas who caught the manager's eye.

The 20-year-old has been brought into the first-team squad this season after a loan spell at Hull City, and led the line for the Reds. Koumas saw an early chance denied by Martin Dubravka and pressed with intent throughout, with Iraola impressed by his work ethic.

"I said it during the week and I say it for a reason. He does it in training every day," Iraola said post-match.

"He is very clear what he needs to do, what the team needs. Also, the energy he shows is contagious for the rest, when you see the ones up front giving everything you are kind of forced to go, go behind and use the same intensity levels. I’m very happy for him.

Koumas was not the only youngster to impress with Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha and James McConnell all involved against a more experienced Spurs side. Iraola was pleased with the contributions from his young talent as Liverpool progressed to the next round.

"I was happy for them. In different positions, different demands. But I think the best thing is probably that they were [tired] when I subbed them; Trey [Nyoni] was cramping, Rio [Ngumoha] couldn’t have run a lot more, [James] McConnell the same. When this happens, it’s because you’ve given us what you’ve got. They have especially been very, very energetic, with the willingness of winning the duels, making them feel their presence. I was happy for them.