Liverpool Concludes Pre-Season with Como Double-Header
Liverpool is set to conclude its pre-season schedule with a double-header against Como 1907 on Sunday. The first match will be played behind closed doors, while the second fixture, kicking off at 6pm BST, will take place at Anfield. These matches mark the fifth and sixth under manager Andoni Iraola as the team prepares for the new Premier League season.
Iraola expressed his view that the squad is progressing positively as the new season approaches. He noted that the games against Como will serve as an important test to finalise preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign. The manager highlighted that despite the outcome of a recent match against Monaco, there were positive aspects and learning opportunities for his staff and himself.
During the match against Monaco, Alexander Isak was noted for scoring and appearing sharp, particularly in the first 30 minutes. However, a challenge identified was the team’s inability to maintain performance levels, a similar issue observed in a previous game against Leeds United. Iraola believes that sustained performance will develop with time and consistent effort in training.
Squad Updates and Player Returns
The return of Alexis Mac Allister to the AXA Training Centre on Monday means that all players who participated in the World Cup are now back with the squad. This full complement of players is considered beneficial for the team’s preparations. Iraola has confidence in the quality and potential within the squad, emphasising the need for consistent performance.
Liverpool has also strengthened its defence with the addition of Ronald Araujo, who joined on a season-long loan from FC Barcelona. Iraola welcomed the Uruguay defender, expressing satisfaction with adding a player of his quality and experience, anticipating a positive impact on the squad.
Central defence has been an area of concern for Liverpool, with several players facing fitness issues. Jacquet, who missed the match against Monaco, is back in team training. Giovanni Leoni is continuing his recovery from an ACL injury, and Joe Gomez sustained a muscle injury during a win against Sunderland, which may affect his start to the season. Ibrahima Konate departed the club on a free transfer to Real Madrid upon the expiry of his contract.
Curtis Jones, despite being linked with a move to Inter Milan, has been dealing with a hip injury but has since returned to training after missing the Monaco game. Fitness levels of Alexis Mac Allister and Victor Munoz are being monitored following their participation in the World Cup final. Longer-term absentees include Conor Bradley with a knee injury and Hugo Ekitike with an Achilles injury.
Pre-Season Form and Upcoming Fixtures
In recent Club Friendlies, Liverpool experienced a loss against Monaco and another against Leeds United. However, they secured a victory against Wrexham and another against Sunderland. Como, in their recent Club Friendlies, drew against Arsenal and achieved wins against Famalicão and Cremonese. Como also recorded wins against Parma and Hellas Verona in Serie A matches.
The upcoming matches against Como are scheduled for Sunday. The behind-closed-doors match will kick off at 11:30am BST, followed by the ticketed friendly at 6pm BST at Anfield. These games will be available to watch live on All Red Video.
Source: bbc.com