Liverpool Football Club get ready to face Bournemouth on Aug. 15. They’re riding high after a strong double-header against Athletic Club at Anfield. The team secured 4-1 and 3-2 victories in the friendlies, showcasing their attacking prowess and solidifying their readiness for the upcoming season. Boss Arne Slot was delighted with the performance and the amount of clear cut chances his side created.
With injury questions hanging over the squad, as the Reds prepare to kick off their 2023 season. Virgil van Dijk should return for the Bournemouth game after missing the friendly matches with illness. Alisson Becker is set to return as well after missing last week for personal reasons. The likes of Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez are in a race against time to be available for the season’s opening fixture.
Strong Performances in Friendlies
Liverpool’s last few pre-season friendlies were a testament to this mix of newest recruits and Liverpool’s blossoming talent. From the pre-season squad, forward Rio Nguhoma was the undoubted star, scoring two goals and assisting two others in four pre-season games. His performances have earned rave reviews from his teammates, with Ben Doak giving an insight into his potential.
“He is going to have some career ahead of him! So sharp and so talented.” – Ben Doak
Hugo Ekitike left his imprint by posting his first assist over this stretch, playing a huge role in Liverpool’s attacking performance. The team’s attacking display was further highlighted by Mohamed Salah, who scored the opening goal in the first friendly, and Harvey Elliott, who added a well-taken effort in the second match.
Even in their own weak domestic league, Arne Slot praised the ruthlessness of his squad across both legs.
“In both games, we created a lot of chances. We scored seven goals and that is very pleasing to see.” – Arne Slot
Injury Updates and Team Dynamics
With the season opener just a few days away, it’s imperative that the health of all key players is factored in. Alisson is definitely fit to return for the Bournemouth match, removing some of the cloudiness over the goalkeeping position. Bradley and Gomez are both under the microscope at the moment for their conditioning. They’re doing everything possible to get right in matchday.
Even though they’re not there for the friendlies, Van Dijk’s leadership and Alisson’s experience will be invaluable upon their return. Having surprised many with a splendid pre-season, the Reds will hope to carry that form as they enter into competitive action.
Community Shield and Upcoming Fixtures
In addition to their showdown with Bournemouth, Liverpool will take on Crystal Palace in the Community Shield. This exciting fixture on August 10th at Wembley, kicking off at 3 pm. This fixture offers an excellent chance for Liverpool to lift their first piece of silverware this season.
Watch the visit of Bournemouth, live on Sky Sports, next up! Supporters will finally have the chance to witness just how Liverpool’s scintillating pre-season form carries over to league action. Liverpool look primed to make a deep run and they’ll want to make a statement as they open their campaign today. They’re mixing experienced veterans with upstarts such as Nguhoma and Ekitike.
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