Fresh off winning the Premier League trophy last season, Liverpool is set to take on Bournemouth at Anfield this Friday. Coming off their loss to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield, the Reds look to rewrite the wrong and start the season off with a win. Here are five things you need to know before Friday’s match-up against Bournemouth.

1. Setting the Tone

Liverpool saw its key players struggle last Sunday. Team leaders, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, could not make an impact on the game. Last season, Liverpool team leaders played a key role in winning the Premier League. The team needs them to step up if they want to win their twenty-first league title. How they respond in the wake of the loss will set the tone for the rest of the season.

2. Defensive Adjustments

The Reds’ defensive woes this preseason have been a cause for concern amongst fans. Defensive adjustments will be required going forward. Crystal Palace exploited the left side of the pitch multiple times last Sunday. Look for Arne Slot to make tactical adjustments, especially on the left side of the defense.

3. The Return of the Mac?

Alexis Mac Allister has been dealing with an injury that has sidelined him for most of the preseason. He did make an appearance last Sunday in the Community Shield match. Arne Slot has also hinted that the Argentinian international is available. Liverpool fans will need to wait and see whether Mac Allister gets the nod on Friday.

4. Hello, Old Friend

It seems poetic that in his first regular-season match with Liverpool, Milos Kerkez will play against his former club, AFC Bournemouth. Known for explosive runs and aggressiveness on defense, Kerkez spent two seasons with the Cherries, scoring two goals and providing six assists. Kerkez will look to make an impact in the game against his former team.

5. Forever 20

This will be the Reds first regular-season match in light of the passing of both Diogo Jota and his younger brother Andre Silva. Tributes have spread far and wide as opposing teams have shown their respect for Liverpool’s number twenty. Friday will be a continuation of healing for both Liverpool fans and Jota’s family. As always, Forever 20. You’ll Never Walk Alone.

Coming off winning the Premier League last season, the Reds look to keep the trophy at Anfield. The road for number twenty-one begins this Friday against Bournemouth. The impact of the team leaders and tactical adjustments will be critical in setting the tone for the months ahead. Above all, Forever 20. Those are five things you need to know about the Liverpool match against AFC Bournemouth. Follow Anything Liverpool on X @AnythingLFC for coverage of the game.