Andoni Iraola opted to start Trey Nyoni for Liverpool against Arsenal as Ryan Gravenberch had to settle for a place on the bench against the Premier League champions

Jamie Carragher believes Andoni Iraola has handed a huge blow to Ryan Gravenberch after handing Trey Nyoni a surprising start against Liverpool.

Nyoni, 19, has been a regular in the Liverpool fold this term and impressed when called upon, including in the Carabao Cup win over Chelsea in midweek. Gravenberch meanwhile has struggled to rediscover the form he showed during Liverpool's title-winning campaign.

The Dutchman was expected to line up alongside Alexis Mac Allister in the Liverpool midfield, with Dominik Szoboszlai returning to the bench, but Iraola instead turned to teenager Nyoni to take on the Premier League champions at Anfield.

And Carragher admits the decision will come as a huge setback to Gravenberch. Speaking on Sky Sports before the game, the Reds legend said: "The one thing that has stood out with Iraola is that he is not afraid to make big decisions.

"He dropped Gravenberch really early in the season. He has left Kerkez out and changed the wingers many times already.

"The first time, as a youngster, when you are picked over an established senior player, it is always difficult for them to recover.

"It's not that he can't come back but Iraola is saying he has more trust in a 19-year-old, whose career is only going one way. I think it will be a mighty blow to Gravenberch."

Daniel Sturridge agreed with the decision, adding: "Trey has been very good so far this season, comfortable in possession, brave enough to drop deep and pick up the ball. He is making interceptions and he has earned this opportunity.

"He has earned it. Gravenberch hasn't been at his best. we know he is a top player. I believe he will get back to his best.I think the manager has made the right call for this time."

Iraola waxed lyrical about Nyoni earlier this week after the youngster caught the eye in the shootout win over Chelsea.

The Liverpool boss said: "“I probably realised quite early that there was a player there. He is still very young, still has to go through the steps and we have to help him in this process, but I think he’s ready to contribute straight away.

“He’s basically playing all the games lately. Being very young, I think he’s very mature, he understands the game very well and he’s not very affected by the pressure. That is always good when you are young."