Liverpool kicked off their preseason campaign with an emotional 3-1 win at Preston North End.
The Reds have returned to action in recent days as the squad, Arne Slot and the entire Liverpool fan base look to rebuild following the tragic death of striker Diogo Jota at the start of July.
The Portugal international was killed alongside his brother Andre in a car accident in Spain as he was heading back for the start of preseason.
Slot issued a superb pre-game message, where the Dutchman stated he wants the players to 'follow their emotions' in the weeks ahead, and paid tribute to Jota by stating 'we will carry him with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go.'
Emotions were at the forefront of focus at Deepdale, as the contest opened with a stirring rendition of You'll Neve Walk Alone, sang by both sets of fans.
The travelling Liverpool faithful sang Jota's name throughout, and two of the goal scorers - Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo - mirrored Jota's famous celebrations after their own goals in Lancashire.
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The result and performance was a side note on a day where players and fans came together to reflect on a figure fondly remembered.
Slot is still easing his players back into action ahead of the 2025/26 campaign with Giorgi Mamardashvili handed a starting debut, before fellow summer signings Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez came on at half-time.
Liverpool fielded a completely new XI for the second period, and eagle-eyed Reds fans will have spotted Slot's possible plan to fit Kerkez and veteran Andy Robertson into his team moving forward.
Kerkez paid tribute to Robertson after completing his summer move to Anfield, but the Hungary international will be pushing to make the left-back spot his own, despite Robertson's impressive longevity.
The Scotland star has developed into one of the Premier League's best-ever left-backs during his time on Merseyside - with two top-flight titles won - but his performances last season raised concerns.
Despite not experiencing a drop-off, questions arose over his durability to start multiple games in a short window, after turning 31 earlier this year.
However, on the back of rejecting a move to Atletico Madrid, Robertson is ready for the battle, and could be also used as a left-sided centre-back in 2025/26.
The former Hull City man covered the role last season, and completed 45 minutes there alongside Kerkez, with captain Virgil van Dijk not involved.
It will not be a regular thought for Slot, but it offers an extra option for a packed season, and Robertson's grit and versatility will be vital.
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