Iraola calls for a Liverpool reaction as defensive set-piece woes raise fresh concerns

Andoni Iraola has demanded that Liverpool react to recent setbacks against Arsenal and Fenerbahce.

Liverpool travel to Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend after successive defeats. After a narrow loss to Arsenal in the league last weekend, the Reds twice squandered the lead to lose at Fenerbahce in the Champions League.

The loss in Istanbul has raised question marks against Iraola's side, who conceded all three goals from set pieces. Virgil van Dijk said this week that Liverpool's defensive fragility can not continue.

Though Liverpool have a decent defensive record in the Premier League this season, their issues in midweek have raised concern. Last season, Liverpool led the Premier League for set-piece goals conceded (20), while Iraola's Bournemouth side ranked second (18).

Liverpool have failed to find consistency in their performances under Iraola, who spoke to the media on Friday ahead of this weekend's trip to Palace.

The Spaniard said his team must show a reaction as the Reds look to remain within reach of the teams at the top.

"I think that is the challenge, especially in a club like Liverpool. One week ago in this news conference [the talk was] we were on a run, everything was in a good place and we were in a better mood.

"Now, after two defeats [against Arsenal in the Premier League and Fenerbahce in the Champions League] it changes and it has to be like this in clubs like ours.

"Now we have to react after two defeats. We need a win against Crystal Palace away. We have been in similar situations against Bournemouth before the international break and after the Brentford game.

"So we have to go [to Palace], do a good job and win the game."