News stories of Xabi Alonso’s impending move to another European Club continue to percolate and bubble in the background at Anfield through the closed season, but what other ins, outs and headlines have been covered? New signing Glen Johnson played his first game for Liverpool, a 0-0 draw against St. Gallen in Switzerland. The 15th July pre-season friendly saw two Liverpool teams play, with all 24 squad members getting a run-out.

Liverpool FC and Adidas launched the new European Away/3rd Kit on the 16th, an all-white shirt with the three stripes in red on the sleeves. Sales of the previous European were not as good as expected and it is hoped that the classic white design will boost sales.

July 19th, the Reds lose 1-0 in the friendly at Rapid Vienna. Javier Mascherano started on the bench, following his return from international duty with Argentina. The next pre-season match, against Peter Reid’s Thailand, ends 1-1. Xabi Alonso misses out on a place in the squad once more, with Rafa Benitez telling the press that the rumour-plagued player has an ankle injury. Martin Skrtel and Nabil El Zahir return to Merseyside, following injuries picked up in the game against Thailand. El Zahir damaged knee ligaments, and Skrtel pulledup with a hamstring injury, both players could miss the start of Liverpool’s 2009-2010 season. July 24th sees Liverpool FC team captain Steven Gerrard cleared of affray in his court case heard in Merseyside. “We are really pleased,” said Rafa Benitez

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