Liverpool to lead decision on Jota tribute friendly with Preston

Liverpool’s first match of the summer is currently scheduled for Sunday, 13 July — but no decision has yet been made on whether it will go ahead.

We are due to travel to Deepdale to take on Preston North End in our opening pre-season friendly, however, the club will not confirm any plans until the players have returned for pre-season and been consulted.

It has been confirmed the players and staff will return to the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, meaning we are likely to expect confirmation then.

It comes as the squad and staff continue to mourn the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, whose death last week has shocked and devastated the football world.

The Championship side are understood to be preparing as though the fixture will be played, with tributes planned in memory of the Portuguese forward should it go ahead, according to the Liverpool ECHO.

Jota tribute planned at Deepdale — but fixture remains uncertain

Preston have left the door open for Liverpool to take the lead on the decision, recognising that the emotional wellbeing of our players and staff must come first.

The fixture would represent not only our first game of the Arne Slot era following his Premier League-winning debut season, but also the first time the players return to action following the loss of their teammate.

As it stands, we will play our first match of an Asia tour two weeks after our game at Deepdale, though no confirmation has yet been made on when things will return to ‘normal’ for the players.

Liverpool have to balance mental and physical wellbeing

So many within the football community are travelling to Anfield, Gondomar and taking to social media to pay their respects to Diogo Jota and his family.

Though the club will need to start planning for the new season soon, likely a discussion that will take place with the players this week.

The emotional support will be in place from the club, whilst they prepare for when the physical conditioning of another grueling season can begin.

Football seems so insignificant at this time but will be addressed soon, behind the scenes.