Boss: Why we trained at Anfield on Friday
Liverpool's summer additions to the squad and coaching staff were given a first taste of Anfield on Friday ahead of the opening home game of the new season, against Bournemouth.
Brendan Rodgers oversaw a training session at the Reds’ stadium as his team build up for the visit of Eddie Howe’s newly-promoted side on Monday evening.
It was a decision designed to give the new faces within the club’s ranks an early experience of the famous ground before the real action in front of the Kop.
“We took the players and trained there last night,” said the manager at his pre-match press conference.
“I felt it was important for our new players and the new staff to acquaint themselves with Anfield. They know how special it is.
“They trained well last night and obviously we’re looking forward to the game on Monday. It’s a really special place to play football and it’s going to be very important again for us, if we’re going to have a good season, that our home form is second-to-none.
“A big part of that is the support we receive at home. So we’re looking forward to the game.”
Rodgers revealed that he’ll be selecting from a similar squad to the one that returned from Stoke City with a 1-0 result and three points last weekend.
He also offered an update on the rehabilitation of defender Jon Flanagan, who remains firmly on schedule amid a long spell on the sidelines.
The Northern Irishman stated: “He’s on time and everything is going to plan – that was the key thing for Jon.
“He’s working very hard to get back sooner, but we don’t want to put any pressure on him. He’s a very talented young player and the most important thing is that he rehabs well and gets back fit and into the first team. That’s the main aim for Jon.”