Andoni Iraola confirms the return of Liverpool trio for final pre-season fixture
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Andoni Iraola confirmed that Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to get their first pre-season minutes against Leeds in Chicago tonight.The trio of Isak, Wirtz, and Gravenberch only returned to training last Sunday after taking part in the World Cup and having some well earned holiday.Ahead of their return, speaking to the club, Iraola explained why the trio are now ready to feature in the Windy City:"With Florian, Ryan and Alex, I think we've been cautious in terms of giving them the time to reach the level where others are, because they've been training for two before them."He noted that their minutes will be restricted, as there are still three weeks before the season starts and they will have time to get back to the levels required.But the Basque head coach implored:"We need them to start as soon as possible, because sometimes they have to make mistakes now so we can have time to correct them."And there's no better time to make mistakes and learn than during pre-season. Jacquet has been recovering from a shoulder injury he has had since February, while Isak, Wirtz, and Gravenberch will be looking to take their World Cup form and fitness into the season ahead.He wasn't involved in the open training session on the 31st of July, so his participation is in doubt for tonight's game.
Many will hope he can play, but it also makes sense to not risk the Frenchman ahead of what will be an important few weeks.Jacquet's performance (if he plays) will be of interest, as he is the most likely to feature alongside Virgil van Dijk in the league opener away to Newcastle at St James' Park. Liverpool's key partnership for the season ahead?There will be some extra eyes on how Isak and Wirtz link up, following a productive open training session on the 31st of July and intense conversations with Iraola throughout.While expectations will need to be kept in check, it's an exciting time to be a Liverpool fan.
There's a sense of hope and anticipation ahead of the season to come. With key players like Mohamed Salah leaving, as well as suits such as Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes departing too, it's clear that there's still a lot of work to be done behind the scenes.