Liverpool`s preseason campaign begins on Sunday, though the focus is heavily influenced by the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car accident. The loss has understandably caused deep emotional impact on the players and the entire club. Despite this difficult period, the preseason schedule proceeds, with the Reds` opening fixture being an away trip to face Preston North End before they head to Hong Kong for a match against Milan.
Even though the friendly is not being held at Anfield, Liverpool plans to incorporate numerous tributes to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva both before and during the match. As a mark of respect, both teams will wear black armbands. Pre-match tribute coverage is scheduled to be broadcast on YouTube ahead of the game, with the match itself available for live streaming.
Match Information
Here are the key details for watching the match:
- Date: Sunday, July 13
- Time: 9:45 a.m. ET
- Location: Deepdale — Preston, England
- Pregame Coverage: LFCTV and Liverpool YouTube
- Match Live Stream: CBS Sports Golazo Network
Planned Tributes
Specific tributes are scheduled before kickoff. This includes a performance of `You`ll Never Walk Alone,` Liverpool`s famous anthem, along with the laying of a wreath. A minute of silence will be observed, and tributes will be displayed on the stadium screens. Preston North End has also prepared a special commemorative matchday program for the occasion. Furthermore, Liverpool has announced that Diogo Jota`s number 20 jersey will be retired across all levels of the club in his honor.
Potential New Debuts
The Liverpool squad sees some changes with the arrival of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen. Both new signings could potentially make their first appearance for the club in this match. Wirtz joins with a significant transfer fee expectation, while Frimpong arrives following Trent Alexander-Arnold`s departure to Real Madrid. Milos Kerkez, signed from Bournemouth, is another player who might make his Liverpool debut. Although Andrew Robertson remains, manager Arne Slot will likely utilize squad depth extensively throughout the season, especially with Champions League fixtures ahead.
Match Prediction
Despite the emotional context surrounding the day, Liverpool`s considerable squad depth is expected to see them start the preseason with a victory. Florian Wirtz is predicted to score his first goal for the club, making an immediate impact following his high-profile move.
Prediction: Preston 0, Liverpool 4
