Against Preston North End, Conor Bradley and Federico Chiesa stood out in a performance that balanced emotion, tribute and competition.

Bradley, coming off a mixed finish to last season, looked determined to show he won’t surrender his spot without a fight.

Liverpool XI vs Preston: No Wirtz - Starting lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest for friendly	Commentator admits Liverpool’s friendly was “toughest ever” to call	Preston vs Liverpool LIVE - score, Conor Bradley goal, channel and stream, Jota tributes

With Jeremie Frimpong’s big-money arrival casting a shadow over the right-back role, Bradley seized his chance to impress.

Chiesa, meanwhile, has had questions hanging over his future.

After a year spent largely on the sidelines, the Italian had every reason to show he’s still part of the club’s plans.

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Slot’s first pre-season lineup included Bradley from the start and the 22-year-old responded with composure and drive.

He opened the scoring after neat work from Rio Ngumoha and Chiesa and marked it by glancing skyward in memory of Diogo Jota (via Liverpool FC).

But it wasn’t only his goal that stood out.

When Preston looked dangerous, Bradley killed off an attack with a moment of calm defending that brought the away end to its feet.

But on this evidence, he has real decisions to make and a squad ready to compete for places.

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