With players yet to return from their summer break, and while rival clubs engage in kickabouts around the world to build up their fitness for the coming season, the first part of our punishment for last season's league campaign comes on Thursday night, when we're the first Premiership club to face competitive action.
AGENDA:
UEFA Europa League Q3, 1st Leg: v Rabotnicki (a)
KO: 18:45 GMT, 19:45 Liverpool, 20:45 Local 29 July
Host Broadcaster: Macedonian TV
TV Coverage: Streams
The squad will be weakened, not by choice on this occasion, but anyone who does play will have some protection from the chop until January at least. A classic is probably not on the cards, Hodgson will probably look to keep it tight, slow the pace down, and win the tie at home the following week.