Liverpool Women concluded their pre-season media tour at Anfield ahead of Friday's Women's Super League kickoff, with manager Gareth Taylor and several key squad members sharing insights into their preparations for the new campaign.
Speaking as part of the club's final media day stop before the season begins, Taylor discussed the importance of maintaining consistent standards both on and off the pitch. The manager, who has enjoyed a full pre-season with his squad this time around, also touched on his personal interests away from football, revealing gardening as one of his passions during the wide-ranging conversation.
Midfielder Sam Kerr also featured prominently in the discussions, offering her perspective on leadership within the squad. Kerr spoke about setting standards for her teammates, including what was described as her approach to driving standards among the group - a nod to the culture she aims to foster at the club.
Two of Liverpool's summer signings used the platform to introduce themselves to supporters ahead of their first campaign at Anfield. England goalkeeper Khiara Keating spoke about the experience of reuniting with Taylor, who she has worked with previously. The shot-stopper reflected on her development both as a player and as a person, discussing how she has matured in recent seasons. Keating also outlined her ambitions for the upcoming campaign, expressing hopes of success with both her new club and on the international stage with England's Lionesses.
Slovenian international Sara Agrež, another new arrival at the club, discussed her defensive qualities as she prepares for her first season in the WSL. Beyond her on-pitch contributions, Agrež spoke about the responsibility she feels in representing her country and the impact she hopes to have on young girls back home in Slovenia who look up to her as inspiration for their own footballing dreams.
The media day appearances form part of Liverpool's build-up to what promises to be a significant season for the club, with the squad having benefited from a complete pre-season under Taylor's guidance for the first time. The manager's emphasis on consistent behaviours suggests a squad culture built on accountability, with senior players like Kerr expected to drive standards throughout the campaign.
The additions of Keating and Agrež represent significant investment in both defensive solidity and goalkeeping quality for Liverpool as they look to compete at the top end of the WSL table. Keating's arrival brings England international pedigree between the posts, while her existing relationship with Taylor from previous spells together could help ease her transition into the squad's setup.
Agrež, meanwhile, brings international experience from Slovenia and adds another dimension to Liverpool's backline options. Her comments about inspiring young girls in her homeland reflect the growing global reach and influence of the Women's Super League, with players increasingly conscious of their role models status both domestically and internationally.
With the season opener now just days away, Liverpool's squad appears to be entering the campaign with clear objectives and a settled squad culture, as outlined by Taylor and his players during their Anfield media session. The club will be looking to build on their pre-season preparations as they aim to make an impact in what promises to be another competitive WSL campaign.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.