Liverpool's pre-season tour: 5 issues to be careful for as Reds head to the Far East
Arne Slot's workforce jet off to Hong Kong earlier than heading to Japan for 4 friendlies throughout 10 days as they gear up for a defence of their Premier League title
Liverpool are jetting off on their pre-season tour to Asia this morning with Arne Slot's Premier League champions enjoying 4 video games earlier than taking over Crystal Palace within the Neighborhood Protect in three weeks’ time.
And whereas the Reds proceed to mourn the tragic passing of Diogo Jota earlier this month, anticipation of a powerful title defence is constructing.
As soon as they get used to the situations and time distinction, Liverpool will tackle AC Milan subsequent weekend earlier than going through Yokohama Mariners after which tackle Athletic Membership in a double-header on the identical day.
Listed here are a few of the issues to look out for as the brand new marketing campaign seems on the horizon.
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Wirtz debut
The Germany star didn’t make his much-awaited debut towards Preston North Finish final weekend so anticipation stays excessive forward of his first look for the membership following his file transfer.
It’s going to virtually actually come towards Milan subsequent Saturday (12:30pm BST) and contemplating the payment paid there will likely be stress on Wirtz to adapt instantly.
Ekitike provide
Not content material with spending £211m available in the market already, Liverpool at the moment are pushing on with a transfer for the Eintracht Frankfurt striker who might price one other £80m.
Newcastle are out of the operating, a bid is within the pipeline, private phrases aren’t any difficulty and as soon as a payment is agreed between the golf equipment the younger France striker could possibly be a part of the second half of the tour.
Nunez departure
That might expedite the doubtless departure of striker Darwin Nunez, who will likely be a part of the touring occasion however might effectively bid farewell earlier than the remainder of the squad returns to Merseyside.
Inevitably he’s now being linked with a swap to Newcastle however extra realistically might head to the Saudi Professional League, with a number of golf equipment there conserving a eager eye on the Uruguayan.
Children' huge likelihood
A travelling squad is but to be introduced and there’s an expectation that fewer academy gamers in comparison with this time final yr will likely be given a glance in as a result of Slot’s squad has a lot extra depth to it following the signings – becoming a member of Wirtz are Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and goalkeepers Giorgi Mamardashvili, plus kids Armin Pecsi and Freddie Woodman.
However Trey Nyoni, Rio Ngumoha and Ben Doak could possibly be amongst these set for some window of alternative to impress.
Jota tributes
Diogo Jota’s unhappy loss of life continues to solid a shadow over the whole lot and the respectful tributes will proceed in the course of the tour – not least from the hundreds of passionate followers the membership has throughout Asia.
Supporters golf equipment in Hong Kong and Tokyo have confirmed they may mark his passing.
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