Liverpool return for preseason as Steven Gerrard begins U18 role

The majority of Liverpool's players will report back to Melwood for preseason training on Wednesday as preparations begin for the 2017-18 campaign.

Liverpool say first-team regulars Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Nathaniel Clyne, Daniel Sturridge and Joel Matip are all part of the 22-man party expected to be at Melwood for physical tests and assessments.

Sadio Mane, Danny Ings and captain Jordan Henderson - who all finished last season injured -- will also be present on Wednesday.

Those players who have had international commitments over the summer -- such as Philippe Coutinho, Emre Can, Adam Lallana and new signing Mohamed Salah -- will begin preseason training at a later date.

Liverpool's first preseason friendly is on July 12 as they make the short journey to Prenton Park to face National League side Tranmere Rovers.

After playing Wigan Athletic on July 14, Liverpool will fly out to Hong Kong to take part in the Premier League Asia Trophy, before moving on to Germany for three warm-up matches before concluding their preseason schedule against Athletic Bilbao in Dublin.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard has started his role as manager of Liverpool's under-18 side.

After welcoming his youngsters to Liverpool's Kirkby academy on Monday, the former first-team captain says he "can't wait" for his first competitive game in charge.

"It's exciting," Gerrard told the club's official website. "I'd been waiting for this all through the summer and had one eye on it while I've been having a bit of a break. It's here now and I'm really excited about getting my teeth into it.

"Ninety-five percent of the planning was done at the back end of last year. I did a lot of planning with [academy director] Alex [Inglethorpe], he's been a big help for me to get sorted for today.

"I feel ready, we're organised and I've got a fantastic staff around me. We just can't wait for the first game of the season now."

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