Liverpool full-back Milos Kerkez has welcomed Andoni Iraola's appointment as head coach, describing him as "the perfect fit" after being coached by him for two seasons at Bournemouth. The Hungary international, who joined Liverpool for £40m last year but endured a difficult debut season at Anfield, is well placed to benefit from the managerial change, having already earned Iraola's confidence and being familiar with his demanding, high-intensity coaching style. His comments come amid a busy summer that also saw him mistaken for a bridegroom after escorting his brother's bride into church in Serbia.

Kerkez, 22, said he was "delighted" on learning Arne Slot had been sacked and replaced by Iraola, praising the new manager's emphasis on pressing high, playing one-on-one duels across the pitch and maintaining relentless intensity in training. He and fellow Hungarian Dominik Szoboszlai have taken on leadership roles during Liverpool's pre-season camp in Chicago, which has included gruelling double training sessions and a friendly win over Sunderland in Nashville. Kerkez, eligible for Hungary through his paternal grandparents, is now aiming to step out of Andy Robertson's shadow as the Iraola era begins.