Liverpool extend winning run before Arsenal test

Liverpool’s fifth consecutive win in all competitions has lifted optimism before Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Arsenal, but manager Andoni Iraola says the team still needs to improve and collect more league points. Liverpool beat Chelsea in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, advancing after a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes and a penalty shootout. The result continued a five-match winning run across all competitions. Iraola said only two of those victories had come in league play, leaving Liverpool needing further wins to recover points. The match against Arsenal is scheduled for Sunday, November 1, at Anfield. A Liverpool victory would move the club to within three points of Arsenal, according to the reports. Iraola said he welcomed supporters’ expectations but was not yet focused on the league standings, saying he preferred to assess the table around the halfway point of the season. Iraola described Arsenal as a strong opponent, citing the quality of its players and the way they work together. He said Liverpool would need to be ready for a demanding match and expressed confidence in his players and the atmosphere at Anfield. Arsenal had moved level with Manchester City at the top...