Iraola confirms Isak and Gakpo out as Liverpool face major Manchester City test

Andoni Iraola has confirmed that neither Alexander Isak or Cody Gakpo will feature for Liverpool against Manchester City.

Liverpool return from the international break with a huge fixture against the Premier League leaders, amid the backdrop of the guilty verdict against City for historic financial breaches.

Liverpool are looking to maintain an unbeaten start under Iraola, but must combat the absence of leading scorer Isak.

The Swedish striker is out with a minor thigh injury, while in-form Cody Gakpo has also been ruled out with an ankle issue. Gakpo has provided three assists in the Premier League this season.

Both players picked up issues on international duty and will play no part, though Iraola is confident the pair will not be absent for long.

On Gakpo, Iraola said at his pre-match press conference that it's a "matter of him dealing with the pain".

The absence of the duo leaves Liverpool light at centre-forward, with Hugo Ekitike a long-term absentee with an Achilles issue. Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz are options through the middle, while Iraola outlined his confidence in academy product Lewis Kouma.

"Koumas has our trust. I don't think it's a big surprise, I always liked the player and he has already shown in important minutes that he has ready to go and we have also other players who can go in those positions."