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Liverpool’s pre-season schedule ends today as Arne Slot’s men host Athletic Club in a unique double-header at Anfield.

The first fixture kicks off at 5:00 PM BST, followed by a second showdown at 8:00 PM BST.

Fans can expect two distinct lineups as Slot gives both his preferred starters and squad hopefuls meaningful minutes against the experienced La Liga outfit.

Athletic Club arrive in fine form after a tough preseason schedule but will need to overcome Liverpool’s home advantage.

In the first game, Slot is likely to field his strongest XI, while the second match offers younger players and fringe squad members a chance to impress.

The players should be hungry to stake their claims in the team ahead of the Community Shield final next week.

Writing in his pre-game programme notes, Arne Slot touched on some of the issues on tour:

“Our tour of Asia was a good one, with a lot of hard work on the training pitches.

Pre-season is about getting fit and keeping fit, and although we had a couple of small issues during our 10 days away, the majority of our players returned healthy and in a good shape as we count down to the new season.”

With that in mind, let’s take a look at injury and absentee concerns ahead of the Anfield friendlies:

Joe Gomez was forced to return to Merseyside last week after suffering an Achilles tendon issue on tour in Asia.

He flew home for scans and rehabilitation, leaving his availability for the double-header in serious doubt.

It would be a surprise if the 28-year-old makes an appearance.

Federico Chiesa, omitted from the Asia squad due to a minor fitness concern, continues to work behind the scenes on his condition.

Alexis Mac Allister made a welcome return to full training in Tokyo after a lengthy spell out with a niggling issue.

The Argentina midfielder looked sharp in team sessions and played 30 minutes against Yokohama?

He should be able to play some part in today’s fixtures.

Alisson Becker departed the Asia tour for personal reasons and did not join the squad in Tokyo.

While slotting Giorgi Mamardashvili and Freddie Woodman into the goalkeeping rota on tour, Liverpool expect Alisson to rejoin the group for today’s matches.

READ MORE: How to watch Liverpool vs Athletic Bilbao

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