THE Arne Slot era at Liverpool began in disappointing fashion as they were beaten by a Championship side.
The Dutchman, 45, penned a three-year contract at Anfield after leaving Feyenoord and replacing Jurgen Klopp.
The latest chapter in the rich history of Liverpool officially began last week when Slot and the squad started pre-season training.
He and his coaching staff, which includes a former Everton player, put those stars not involved in the later stages of Euro 2024 or the Copa America through their paces.
But they stepped up preparations today when second tier Preston came to the AXA Training Centre.
The Reds and North End competed in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly.
But it was one to forget for Slot as his team went down 1-0 as Robbie Brady scored the only goal with a long-ranger.
It did, however, provide the new man the opportunity to give 25 players a run-out.
And that included some stars as both Mohamed Salah, 32, and Dominik Szoboszlai played in the first half.
They were joined by Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott in the opening period.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
Salah came the closest for Liverpool when he struck the crossbar after being teed up by Kostas Tsimikas.
Preston’s social media account then revealed that Brady’s goal was an “incredible lob” from 40 yards out.
By Dan King
LIVERPOOL’S new manager Arne Slot was a good enough player to have a type of pass named after him.
But it is as a manager that the Feyenoord head coach is really making his mark.
Like another bald Dutchman, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, Slot earned his stripes bossing smaller sides before being given a chance at one of the Netherlands’ big three.
But the question Liverpool are pondering is whether Slot would make a better fist of running one of the biggest clubs in the world than Ten Hag so far has at Old Trafford.
Slot, 45, was certainly easier on the eye as a player than centre back Ten Hag.
“The Arne Slot Ball” was something he perfected as a silky No 10 – a back-to-goal, first-time, 180-degree spin and flick behind the defensive line for a winger to run on to deep in the opposition half.
Click here to read all about the incoming Liverpool boss.
Slot opted to make a host of changes for the second half and fielded a side that contained a number of youngsters alongside the likes of Wataru Endo and Stefan Bajcetic.
Despite the result, Liverpool fans will not be worrying too much as they prepare to go on tour of America.
Meanwhile, Preston already have three matches under their belts.
And they have completed a full pre-season training camp in Spain.
They begin their Championship season at home to Sheffield united on Friday 9 August.
STAY in the know this summer with The Sun's transfer experts.
Brentford are ready to slash their asking price for Ivan Toney to less than £50million due to a lack of interest, SunSport can exclusively reveal.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have reportedly agreed personal terms with Manuel Ugarte, who is keen to leave PSG this summer.
And SunSport also reveal Tottenham are looking to hijack Fulham’s move for Scott McTominay, who Ugarte would be replacing in midfield.
Follow our LIVE TRANSFER BLOG for all the latest deals, gossip and exclusives.
