Liverpool players have expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support from fans in the US after returning from an intense pre-season tour.
As part of their continued preparations for the 2019/20 season, the Reds took part in a three-stop tour of the United States, taking in the sights of Notre Dame, Boston and New York.
While results failed to go in Liverpool’s way after twice falling to defeat to Borussia Dortmund and Sevilla before closing out the tour with a draw against Sporting CP, the nine-day stay on US soil focused on improving fitness ahead of the final weeks of pre-season.
The three games saw senior figures in Andy Robertson, Jordan Henderson, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Gini Wijnaldum handed valuable game time after their late return to training, while a host of youngsters were again given the chance to impress.
For Joel Matip, who featured in two of the three games, the tour proved to be “intense” as the players were put through their paces to reach the desired fitness level.
Speaking to LFCTV, the central defender admitted the team remain “confident” leading up to the new season as he also spoke of his desire to make the most of his chances in front of goal having notched just three in his Liverpool career to date:
“It was an intense period with good opponents, and we worked hard to get a better fitness level and to get back in the mood.
“We still have a lot of work to do, but we are working hard and I’m looking forward and we are confident.
“Hopefully [I can score more]. I’m getting closer but when I’m in the front and I have a chance I want to use it.”
Liverpool’s presence in America saw tens of thousands of fans turn out to watch Jurgen Klopp‘s side in action despite the sweltering temperatures, where Boston record the hottest day since 1991 during the clash with Sevilla.
The players were, therefore, full of gratitude for the unwavering support they received everywhere they went having taken to social media to share their appreciation.
Wijnaldum and Fabinho commended the fans for “all the support”, while the club’s sole summer signing, Sepp van den Berg was delighted after making his debut and also took time to laud the “amazing” fans:
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After again showing why many have tipped him for a bright future, Rhian Brewster lauded “a great tour” and “even better” fans upon his return to the UK.
Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson and Adam Lewis both voiced their thanks to the American Reds:
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Simon Mignolet was delighted to be handed “crucial minutes on the pitch” after just two appearances last season, while Van Dijk was eager to continue the “hard work” as the new season draws closer.
And for Robertson, all eyes were the Reds’ next game in his native Scotland:
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Having now returned to Merseyside, Klopp’s side will now focus on the next challenge ahead which sees them face off against a familiar opponent in Napoli in Edinburgh on Sunday.
The two sides met last pre-season as Liverpool emerged as the victors having scored five unanswered goals, while the group stage meetings in the Champions League saw both teams secure a 1-0 win.
The conclusion of the fixture will see the Reds head to Evian, France for a training camp where they will be joined by Alisson, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah.
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