Ipswich Town, back in the Premier League after a 22-year absence, face a daunting task in their opening fixture as they host Liverpool at Portman Road on Saturday. The Tractor Boys' return to the top flight begins with a double-header against two of the league's giants, first welcoming Liverpool and then travelling to reigning champions Manchester City.
How to watch Ipswich vs Liverpool, streaming details and kick-off time:
Kick-off time: 12:30pm BST, Saturday (August 17)
Venue: Portman Road
TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
Streaming: Sky Go & NOW TV
Ipswich vs Liverpool live updates:
Early pressure from the hosts:
Ipswich have started with intent, pressing high and creating an energetic atmosphere at Portman Road. Hutchinson had a shot blocked by Quansah as Liverpool struggle to settle.
Ipswich Team Lineup:
Walton; Tuanzebe, Woolfenden, Greaves, David; Luongo, Morsy; Burns, Chaplin, Hutchinson; Delap
Liverpool Team Lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Jota
Ipswich Town Team News:
The key player to watch for Ipswich is Omari Hutchinson, who joined permanently after a successful loan spell from Chelsea. The 20-year-old winger leads the attack alongside an experienced midfield duo of Massimo Luongo and Sam Morsy. Leif Davis, an attacking left-back, is also expected to cause problems for Premier League defences. However, Ipswich face injury concerns with forwards George Hirst and Nathan Broadhead sidelined for the initial months, along with defender Harry Clarke.
Liverpool Team News:
Andy Robertson, who missed pre-season with an ankle injury, is back in contention. Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones have recovered from their respective issues. Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have refined their style to favour slower possession and increased rotation in midfield and attack, allowing players like Mohamed Salah more freedom. Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz have shown impressive form, scoring in their recent friendly win against Sevilla. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Darwin Nunez, and Alexis Mac Allister have also returned to training and are expected to start.
Ipswich Town vs Liverpool prediction:
Despite the potential for an upset, Liverpool's attacking prowess could prove too much for Ipswich.
Predicted score: Ipswich Town 1-3 Liverpool
Preview:
Kieran McKenna has achieved remarkable success, guiding Ipswich to consecutive promotions from League One to the Premier League. Their direct counter-attacking style, coupled with thrilling late drama, promises an exciting addition to the top flight. Their approach can be compared to Luton Town's playing style.
Liverpool, meanwhile, enters a new era under Arne Slot, who will implement subtle changes to their game while retaining the core squad. With a return to the Champions League and the ambition to challenge for the title, expectations remain high.
This clash pits two teams with distinct approaches against each other, offering a compelling start to the new Premier League season.