Andoni Iraola’s first match at Anfield ends with a 3-2 defeat to Monaco

Liverpool suffered a frustrating pre-season defeat after surrendering a two-goal lead despite Alexander Isak finding the net and Florian Wirtz producing another impressive attacking display.

The Reds appeared firmly in control after racing into a 2-0 advantage, with Isak getting among the goals as Liverpool’s new-look attack showed early promise.

Wirtz was central to much of Liverpool’s best football, providing creativity and movement as the Premier League side threatened to pull away.

But the complexion of the match changed as the French side worked their way back into the contest.

Liverpool failed to protect their advantage and their opponents capitalised, scoring twice to wipe out the two-goal deficit and set up a tense finish.

With the match seemingly heading towards a draw, Paris Brunner struck late to complete the turnaround and condemn Liverpool to defeat.

The result provided another pre-season test for Liverpool as preparations for the new campaign continued, although the match also brought some encouraging developments for the squad.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker, captain Virgil van Dijk and forward Cody Gakpo all returned to the starting XI for the first time since their involvement at this summer’s World Cup.

Their return gave Liverpool a significant boost as the club works to bring its international players back up to full match fitness ahead of the competitive season.

Curtis Jones was absent, however, with the midfielder left out as a precaution because of a hip problem.

Despite the defeat, Isak’s goal and Wirtz’s attacking influence offered Liverpool encouragement going forward. The manner in which the Reds allowed their opponents back into the game, however, ultimately decided the contest.

Brunner delivered the decisive blow late on, completing a comeback that had looked unlikely when Liverpool established their early two-goal cushion.

Liverpool now have one more major opportunity to sharpen their preparations before competitive football begins.

The Reds will conclude their pre-season campaign against Italian side Como at Anfield next Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm BST.

Liverpool and Como will also play a separate behind-closed-doors fixture at 12pm BST earlier that day, giving more members of the squad an opportunity to build match fitness.

The two games will bring Liverpool’s pre-season schedule to an end as attention turns towards the start of the new campaign.