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The strangest preseason in Liverpool history is behind us after just two weeks. With several team members now on international duty and returning 48 hours before Leeds United’s visit, there has been a broken element in the preparation for Jürgen Klopp since his announcement. He’s not alone in his modified approach, though, and so we’ve taken the top five positives from the Reds’ summer of preparation and how they might influence the season ahead:
Takumi minamino
The obvious one. The form of the Japanese attacker has alleviated some of the transfer problems that have taken hold of recent times. With eye-catching displays from every game he’s featured, Minamino looks more confident, comfortable, and at home with the rhythm of his team’s play. It could be a surprise feature in the lineup on Saturday, it’s been that impressive.
Standards
This is always difficult to judge, but the standards of the squad seem to have been maintained since the league’s victory in terms of intensity and drive. The team fought back against setbacks against Red Bull Salzburg, Arsenal and Blackpool. And while they won’t want to have to make up deficits as often in the future, there is clearly a fighting spirit that they will need to have in a campaign where the target on their back will not be quantifiable.
(Image: (Photo by John Powell / Liverpool FC via Getty Images))
Injuries
Knock on wood, the Reds haven’t been too unfortunate given the short break and intense programming. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is the biggest mistake, but with Joel Matip and Jordan Henderson returning now (as well as Trent Alexander-Arnold for England), Liverpool looks pretty healthy. If we can get Xherdan Shaqiri to a field soon, the joy will be unmatched.
Curtis jones
The other outstanding artist of the summer. Some have been quick to judge two weeks of gym work or a high-carb diet for improved performance. Instead, what is clear is that the youngster has assessed his own level in line with that of the elders and has judged that he is ready to make the leap in terms of boss games the way he did at the youth level. You almost feel like Jones needs to play this way to thrive, and he certainly has so far this summer.
Austria
We may not know how important the period of time Klopp had with his team in the Austrian Alps is for this season, but it could prove vital in time. By all accounts, the team was tested to the extreme, with incredible training facilities and accommodation to refine before leaving for their countries or returning to Melwood. It wasn’t America or Asia, but it could be just as beneficial.
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