There is plenty of uncertainty over what kind of shape Liverpool will be in once the new Premier League season kicks off next month.

The Reds have been devastated by the tragic loss of Diogo Jota this summer, with expectations from supporters largely going out the window already.

Nobody quite knows how players and staff at Liverpool will react to the sudden and unexpected death of a much-loved teammate, and fans will certainly be understanding if things do not get off to the best start.

All eyes will be on the Reds on August 15th, when the Premier League champions kick off the new campaign with what will be a hugely emotional Anfield clash with Bournemouth.

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After that, Liverpool’s first away game looks like a tough one, with a trip to St James’ Park on the horizon at the end of August.

But while visiting the North East is never easy for any team, the Premier League may have just done Liverpool a favour ahead of that key fixture.



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Playing on the first Friday night of the season means Liverpool were always going to get a little rest between their first and second matches.

However, as per Liverpoolfc.com, the Reds will now actually have a full 10 days off between facing Bournemouth and Newcastle.

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Liverpool’s visit to St James’ has been pushed back to feature on Monday Night Football, on the evening of August 25th.

This would be good news in any circumstances, but given the toll Jota’s devastating passing is likely to take on the Liverpool squad, they need all the help they can get right now.

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Having a little while to process that first game of the season – which is certain to be difficult from a mental point of view – will be helpful in allowing the players to get themselves in the right headspace.

Purely from a footballing point of view, it is also very good news.

Newcastle are a nightmare to play at the best of times, so coming into that one fresh could help the Reds get a result.

Obviously, given they play first this season, Liverpool will get a bigger rest than Newcastle between matchdays one and two.

However, the difference is actually as small as it possibly could be fixtures-wise.

The Magpies’ first game of the campaign is the second overall in the Premier League, as they play Aston Villa at Villa Park in the 12.30pm kick-off on Saturday August 16th.

Nevertheless, that extra night’s sleep could make all the difference for the Liverpool players as they prepare for one of the season’s toughest away games.

There are so many unknowns heading into a year in which tragedy has affected the Reds, but small things like this could yet make a big difference.
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