In the final game before the extended international break, Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth this afternoon to extend their unbeaten start.

Andoni Iraola secured all three points on his first return to the Vitality Stadium after leaving the Cherries to take up the manager’s role on Merseyside this summer.

Alexander Isak’s effort in the 57th minute was enough to secure all three points and ensure the Reds remain unbeaten in the Premier League in 2026/27.

After netting the winner during the clash with Marco Rose’s men, it’s no surprise to see the Swedish international receiving most of the plaudits from supporters and pundits.

Why Isak is looking back to his best after Bournemouth

There’s no denying many Liverpool fans were left wanting more from Isak after last season, as he only netted three league goals during his injury-hit debut campaign at the club.

He’s taken time to settle into life on Merseyside and make the desired impact, but it looks as though the 26-year-old is starting to get back to the levels which saw them pay £125m for his signature.

His clinical finish against the Cherries early this afternoon not only secured all three points, but also allowed the attacker to better his goal tally from last season after just five matches.

Isak has now netted four times in his first five league games this season, with his underlying stats from the recent outing showcasing why he can lead the Reds forward this campaign.

Alongside his second-half strike, the centre-forward managed to create a chance for his teammate, whilst making three passes into the final third of the pitch.

Such numbers showcase his ability to provide opportunities for those around him in forward areas, which in turn could see him improve his assist tally this campaign.

His return to goalscoring form will no doubt be the biggest positive for Iraola, who will need his goals this campaign if he is to be a success during his debut campaign.

Why Liverpool star has overtaken Szoboszlai as their best player

For many months now, Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has been the club’s leading talent and one who has often provided the goods within attacking areas.

He’s become known for his outrageous long-range efforts in recent times, as seen with his phenomenal strike against Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup this week.

However, he was unable to emulate such a performance on the South Coast this afternoon, and was one of three players to pick up a yellow card during the encounter.

As a result, his struggles allowed other Reds players to catch the eye, with centre-back Jeremy Jacquet once again managing to deliver after his summer arrival.

The Frenchman has become a regular within Iraola’s system over recent weeks and has now started every game since the Premier League commenced last month.

Many thought the 21-year-old would need time to adapt to the demands of English football, but he’s already showcased he’s more than capable of being a shining light in the Premier League.

During the triumph over Bournemouth this afternoon, Jacquet managed to complete 88% of the passes he attempted, with nine of his efforts being defined as line-breaking passes.

Such numbers demonstrate his calm and composed nature at the heart of the defence - something which is vital if they are to build from the back within Iraola’s system.

Without the ball, the youngster was just as dominant, subsequently making three tackles and ending the game with six ball recoveries made - the most of any Liverpool defender.

Jacquet also contributed with two interceptions and two clearances, which enabled the Reds to keep their third clean sheet of this season’s Premier League.

His 75% ground duel success rate reaffirms his dominant nature at the Vitality, with the youngster undoubtedly exceeding all the expectations placed upon him.

Despite his tender age, Jacquet already looks like a talented player who is more than capable of starring in such a division for the foreseeable future.

Isak will no doubt get the majority of the credit for his winning goal, but the Frenchman is a player who appears to be going somewhat under the radar with his efforts.

He’s arguably already taken Szoboszlai’s crown for being the Reds’ most influential player, with the sky truly being the limit for the 9/10 youngster should he continue in the same vein.