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Federico Chiesa has said he is hoping for a “fresh start” under Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola after finding it hard to get regular chances during Arne Slot’s time at Anfield.

The Italy international made an instant impact in Iraola’s first game in charge, coming on from the bench to score Liverpool’s third goal in Saturday’s 4-2 pre-season win over Sunderland in Nashville. The goal gave Chiesa a positive opening to the new campaign, and he is keen to earn a place in the Spaniard’s plans.

The 28-year-old went through a frustrating period under Slot, starting only one Premier League match across the last two seasons despite arriving at Liverpool with a strong reputation after his spell at Juventus. His lack of game time led to talk about his future earlier this summer, but Chiesa says his full attention is still on fighting for a role at Anfield.

“The only conversations I had were about pressing and tactics,” Chiesa said after the win over Sunderland.

“So I don’t know, it is difficult to say. It is always a fresh start at the beginning of the year. Maybe there have been too many fresh starts.”

Even with his limited minutes in recent seasons, Chiesa made it clear that his mindset has not changed.

“But I don’t care, I am trying to do my best for this new manager. Last season under Arne Slot, I was trying to do my best.”

The forward also brushed aside any suggestion that he is already thinking about life away from Liverpool, saying he remains fully committed to the club as preparations go on for the new Premier League season.

“Right now, at the moment, I am happy here at Liverpool. I love the club, I love the fans, I love everything. I am doing the best I can to have a chance here. And then we will see. At the minute, the only thing I am thinking about is Liverpool.”

Liverpool’s pre-season will continue with more matches in the United States before Iraola oversees his first competitive game, when the Reds begin their Premier League campaign away to Newcastle United next month.