Liverpool’s pre-season opener offered the first glimpse on new signings and the first hints of who is ready to step up.
Against Preston North End, Conor Bradley and Federico Chiesa stood out in a performance that balanced emotion, tribute and competition.
Bradley, coming off a mixed finish to last season, looked determined to show he won’t surrender his spot without a fight.
With Jeremie Frimpong’s big-money arrival casting a shadow over the right-back role, Bradley seized his chance to impress.
Chiesa, meanwhile, has had questions hanging over his future.
After a year spent largely on the sidelines, the Italian had every reason to show he’s still part of the club’s plans.
ALSO READ: Liverpool makes transfer decision on Ibrahima Konate amid Real Madrid enquiries
Chiesa and Bradley make their case in style
Slot’s first pre-season lineup included Bradley from the start and the 22-year-old responded with composure and drive.
He opened the scoring after neat work from Rio Ngumoha and Chiesa and marked it by glancing skyward in memory of Diogo Jota (via Liverpool FC).
But it wasn’t only his goal that stood out.
When Preston looked dangerous, Bradley killed off an attack with a moment of calm defending that brought the away end to its feet.
Supporters soon broke into chants of his name, a reminder of how quickly confidence can grow.
Chiesa, too, made the most of his opportunity. Though his future remains unresolved, he looked sharper and more engaged than at any point last season.
If he stays, this was the kind of performance that can change perceptions.
Slot will know it’s too early to draw conclusions.
But on this evidence, he has real decisions to make and a squad ready to compete for places.
ALSO READ: Liverpool risk collapse of Darwin Nunez deal as Napoli set for fresh talks