Alexis Mac Allister has credited Andoni Iraola with turning Liverpool's fortunes around, claiming that "something wasn't right" before the Spaniard arrived at Anfield

Alexis Mac Allister has praised Andoni Iraola for transforming Liverpool's trajectory, admitting that "something wasn't right" prior to the Spaniard's appointment at Anfield.

Iraola was recruited from Bournemouth during the summer window to succeed Arne Slot, who was dismissed following the Reds' failure to retain their Premier League crown last campaign.

Following an inconsistent opening to his tenure, Iraola has guided Liverpool to five victories in their previous six fixtures across all competitions, including Tuesday's dramatic comeback against Villarreal.

Argentine midfielder Mac Allister, who netted a brace as the Reds overturned a two-goal deficit to secure a 4-3 victory at Anfield, was questioned about Iraola's influence during his post-match discussion on Amazon Prime Video.

Addressing presenter Gabby Logan, the midfielder stated: "Last season something wasn't right in the group and this manager changed it, and that's really important. The way we play is quite different, I don't like to compare but I am really enjoying it.

"From the first day, I started seeing something. He's a nice guy and the coaching staff is too. We are going in the right direction but we need to work and put in everything. Hopefully we can win some trophies.", reports the Express.

Mac Allister endured difficulties throughout much of last campaign but has emerged as one of Liverpool's standout performers under Iraola, registering four goals across all competitions while delivering consistent displays week after week.

Reflecting on his double against Villarreal, which featured a header and a close-range strike, he said: "I'm not tall but I love going in the box. I really like it. They know I like to attack the near post.

"I scored in the World Cup as well. It was a good header. The second goal, Rio [Ngumoha], was amazing. I talk with him about cutting it back on the floor.

"It's not something I really practice. My dad is a bit smaller than me but he was quite good in the air so maybe it's something I got from him."

Mac Allister also addressed his contractual position, with his existing agreement set to run until the summer of 2028. Earlier in the campaign, he attracted attention by disclosing that he felt "very sad" about not receiving an improved offer.

"When I say what I said, it was more about my feelings," he said. "That's their decision and it's fine. I do my best and in the end, we'll see what happens."

The midfielder's two-goal display against Villarreal enabled Liverpool to preserve their flawless Champions League record this term, having secured victory in all three of their matches thus far.