Analysing Iraola's first news conference

Outside the AXA Training Centre on a sunny morning, a dozen or so photographers lined up to take pictures of Andoni Iraola before the Spaniard completed a couple of television interviews.

Then it was time for the news conference. It was far from a full house inside the room - understandably so, given we are in the final week of the World Cup - but it was certainly busier than usual and a world away from what Iraola would be used to at Bournemouth.

Iraola impressed, speaking passionately about his readiness for the challenge and his eagerness to understand the city and this unique football club.

There was a shyness about his manner and that, added to his relatively quiet tone of voice, meant it was no blockbuster news conference, such as when Jurgen Klopp was unveiled.

Iraola was reticent to open up when asked to describe his character and personality, though he did say he would try to be as natural as possible. His ability as a coach is not in much doubt, but whether he thrives as the figurehead for Liverpool remains to be seen.

While he was introspective when asked about himself, his answers flowed when invited to discuss his teams' style and principles of play.

His comfort in talking about "playing vertically and with a high press" is entirely in line with someone known to be at home on the training ground rather than in front of a microphone.

The question is how quickly he can translate his philosophy - based on high-intensity running - to a squad that struggled physically last season and requires additions.