FULL TIME
0-2
MATCH PREVIEW & MORE INFO
Ipswich possible starting lineup: Muric; Tuanzebe, Edmundson, Greaves; Johnson, Luongo, Morsy, Davis; Hutchinson, Delap, Harness
Liverpool possible starting lineup: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Jota, Diaz
Match Preview
Ipswich Town's Return to the Premier League
Ipswich Town's return to the Premier League after 22 years comes with a sense of anticipation and challenge as they face Liverpool at Portman Road. The Tractor Boys, under the guidance of Kieran McKenna, have had an encouraging pre-season, securing victories against Shakhtar Donetsk, Hoffenheim, and Nice. McKenna, who has been instrumental in Ipswich's rise, turned down offers from top Premier League clubs to stay with the team, underlining his commitment to establishing Ipswich in the top flight. Despite a promising summer, their history with Liverpool is daunting, especially considering the 11 goals they conceded to the Reds during their last Premier League encounters in the 2001-02 season.
Liverpool's New Era Under Arne Slot
Liverpool enters the season under new management, with Arne Slot taking over after Jurgen Klopp's departure. Slot's arrival has been met with optimism, especially following Liverpool's successful pre-season, where they secured wins against top teams like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Sevilla. The transition from Klopp to Slot represents a new era for the Reds, who are looking to return to the Champions League under its new format. However, Liverpool's transfer activity has been quiet, with fans eagerly awaiting new signings to bolster the squad as they aim to challenge at the top once again.
The Challenges Ahead
As Ipswich prepares to end their long Premier League exile, they are faced with the formidable task of overcoming a Liverpool side eager to make a statement under new management. While Ipswich's pre-season form and new signings offer hope, the reality of facing a team of Liverpool's caliber in their opening match serves as a stern reminder of the challenges that lie ahead in the top flight.
Key Players and Potential Lineups
Both teams have their injury concerns and potential debutants as they approach this fixture. Ipswich may be without key players like Harry Clarke and George Hirst, but their new arrivals, including Arijanet Muric and Liam Delap, could play crucial roles. For Liverpool, the return of Andrew Robertson from injury and the contract situations of key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will be closely watched, as Slot prepares to field a competitive lineup for his first Premier League match in charge.