Liverpool's opening pre-season friendly with Preston to go ahead as planned after Diogo Jota's tragic death

The two clubs held discussions about whether the game should go ahead, following the tragic death of Diogo Jota, but are set to meet on Sunday, according to The Athletic. The game will be Liverpool's first pre-season fixture since the Portugal star was killed in a car crash along with his brother Andre Silva and will be an emotional encounter as players return to action for the first time since losing a much-loved team-mate.

Preston officials have been in discussions with Liverpool chiefs about the best way to pay tribute to Jota on Sunday. Floral tributes continues to be laid outside Anfield, with Andy Robertson having adding his own to the memorial site. He wrote a message that read: "MacJota. Our hearts are broken. But feeling very grateful for the memories you gave us all. I will miss you. Love you, brother. Robbo."

Liverpool manager Arne Slot also attended with his own floral tribute and a message that read: "Diogo, we had the same dream and we fulfilled it together. Andre and yourself will forever be in our hearts. Arne, Miryam, Isa and Joep."

Liverpool players have returned to training this week, just days after attending Jota's funeral in Portugal. Sunday's match will be their first game ahead of the new campaign.