Liverpool’s opening pre-season friendly of the summer will go ahead as planned against Chester FC on Saturday afternoon, despite clashing with the World Cup quarter-final.
The Reds are expected to parade new signings Naby Keitaand Fabinho at the Deva Stadium in their first outing ahead of the 2018-19 season.
There had been plans to move the fixture from its current 3pm slot, though, as it directly clashes with England’s meeting against Sweden in Samara, but the two teams have been forced to concede defeat as the notice is too short for supporters and staff.
However, Liverpool have revealed that their second friendly, away to Tranmere Rovers next Wednesday, will be brought forward by 24 hours to avoid a similar problem if England reach the semi-finals on the same evening.
“Liverpool Football Club can confirm the pre-season game with Tranmere Rovers has been brought forward by 24 hours and will now be played on Tuesday July 10,” a club statement read.
“The fixture, to be held at Prenton Park, was originally scheduled to be contested on Wednesday evening. However, it’ll now take place a day earlier, with kick off remaining at 7.30pm.”
A statement from Chester read: “Chester FC can confirm that Saturday’s first pre season game against Liverpool FC will remain as a 3pm kick off,” said a statement from the non-league club.
“Following England’s victory in the World Cup last night, we made every attempt to move the game, but logistically this proved a major challenge given all match tickets had been sold, and other aspects relating to matchday arrangements were unable to rearrange at short notice.”
Liverpool also face Bury on July 14 and Blackburn Rovers five days later prior to competing in the International Champions Cup.