VS With the players reporting back to Melwood yesterday and preparations for the new season officially underway, I thought it would be nice to put up the thread for our first preseason game. In less than 2 weeks we will line up against the boys from Preston North End. As is typical with most preseason friendlies, we will likely see very little from the first team regulars like Gerrard, Agger, Johnson, etc. However, it is still always exciting to see the lads back in action and it will be fun to see some of the new boys and younger lads get some first team minutes. We may be able to get a look at how Kelly is coming back after his injury, how Luis Alberto will fit into the squad, how Sterling has kicked on from last season, and how BR intends to use Iago Aspas (striker, withdrawn CF, or winger).
Admittedly, you can't really read too much into what goes on in a preseason friendly as they are primarily used for regaining full match fitness. However, with no LFC footie for the last 7 weeks I am itching to see our Reds back in action!! Also, with all of the excitement that comes with doing some good early business in the summer transfer window, I'm sure we are all that much more excited and optimistic about the season to come!!
A few things I'll be looking for in preseason are:
1. Does Sterling seem to be continuing to progress and mature as a player?
2. Has Kelly sufficiently recovered from his injury problems, and will he be able to be counted on to remain fit for a whole season?
3. Will we be able to rely on Jack Robinson as the understudy to Enrique at LB, or will we need to continue to use Johno there in Enrique's absence?
4. Is Lucas any closer to recapturing his best form after his double injury layoff?
5. Will Simon Mignolet be able to organize the defense, control the box, and push Pepe for the starting spot?
6. Can Kolo Toure get back into top fitness after spending the best part of the last 2 seasons on the bench at City?
Can't wait for the new season to get underway!! YNWA
Edit: Mods - Perhaps I should have just stuck this in the "Preseason" thread. Feel free to move if you are so inclined