Liverpool took another step closer to the new season on Saturday as they fell to defeat against AC Milan in Hong Kong.

The Reds have not played a proper match for almost two weeks, when they beat Preston 3-1 at an emotional Deepdale.

While Saturday’s result was obviously not as positive, there was still lots to be encouraged about by Liverpool‘s performance.

The game gave several clues as to where Arne Slot sees his squad, but one question remains unanswered ahead of the new campaign.

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After Trent Alexander-Arnold left for Real Madrid in June, the vice-captaincy is still unfilled at Liverpool.

There are several outstanding candidates, with Andy Robertson seen as one of the leading contenders.

And with rumours circulating that Robertson has been given the gig, the Scot responded after Saturday’s game.

Photo by PETER PARKS/AFP via Getty Images

Liverpool’s squad is quietly brimming with captaincy material.

Should he be given the nod by Slot, it would be well deserved.

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Earlier this week, some rumours emerged on social media that Slot had indeed chosen Robertson to be Van Dijk’s deputy.

Asked by The Anfield Wrap whether that is the case, though, the 31-year-old laughed it off.

“I’ve seen rumours, I’ve had texts and I’ve had people congratulating me, but I’ve not heard anything!” Robertson smiled.

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“Look, we’re obviously part of the leadership group, me, Mo [Salah], Ali [Alisson] and obviously Virgil being captain.

But we do what we do, the four of us are a good tight-knit group.”

While Robertson was denying claims that he has been chosen to replace Alexander-Arnold, Slot himself was answering questions about the vice-captaincy.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, the Liverpool head coach confirmed that he had made a decision on his second-in-command but would not yet publicly announce it.

“We talk more than you guys maybe think.

I think there’s enough leadership in the group at the moment.

“It is probably already decided but I’m not telling it here yet who will be the new vice-captain, but it’s clear we have more than a few that can take that role.”

Whether it’s Robertson, Alisson or Salah, few Liverpool fans will argue with the outcome.