Report: LFC Pre-Season Opener with Preston Gets Green Light | OneFootball

Liverpool Set to Honour Diogo Jota as Preston Friendly Goes Ahead

In the wake of an incredibly painful week for Liverpool Football Club, plans are now firmly in place for Sunday’s pre-season clash with Preston North End to proceed as scheduled. As reported by The Standard, the two clubs have been in “constant dialogue” regarding the fixture, and out of that mutual respect and understanding, a decision has been reached to fulfil the original agreement.

Tribute in Tragedy

The friendly at Deepdale will mark Liverpool’s first appearance since the conclusion of their successful Premier League campaign, but the context has dramatically shifted. The heartbreaking passing of Diogo Jota has cast a long shadow over what was intended to be a positive return to action.

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Preston, demonstrating true class and compassion, handed the reins to Liverpool to make the final call — a gesture that has earned widespread admiration. According to the Evening Standard, the Championship side will also work closely with LFC officials, including sporting director Richard Hughes and the club’s communications team, to ensure an appropriate tribute is paid.

Plans are already underway to honour Jota’s memory in a respectful and heartfelt manner during Sunday’s match, and it is understood Preston will be guided entirely by Liverpool’s preferences.

First Steps Forward

Players reported back to the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, beginning their preparations for the upcoming season under the cloud of personal and collective grief. Alongside returning squad members were summer signings Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Giorgi Mamardashvili and Milos Kerkez — all of whom are taking their first steps as Liverpool players under immensely difficult circumstances.

The game, which will be broadcast live on ITV1, will provide a poignant platform for Liverpool to honour not only Diogo Jota but also his brother Andre Silva.

Full Respect for Liverpool’s Decision

The decision to go ahead was one not made lightly, and it was clear from the start that Liverpool’s wellbeing was paramount.

It’s understood that this match will be approached not just as a football fixture, but as an emotional and meaningful tribute. Both clubs are expected to handle the occasion with the dignity it deserves, honouring Jota in a way that reflects both his impact on the pitch and the void left behind off it.