Liverpool left-back Andrew Robertson said in a recent interview in Hong Kong that pre-season training is not only a critical period for improving physical fitness, but also an important stage for enhancing team cohesion and helping new players integrate.

As one of the most experienced players in the team, Robertson is entering his ninth season with Liverpool. Currently, Liverpool is preparing for the upcoming 2025-26 season and the team has made frequent moves in the transfer market to sign a number of strong new players.

Liverpool's new signings include Jeremy Frimpong, Kerkez Miloš, Giorgio Mamadashvili, Florian Wirtz and the newly announced striker Hugo Ekiti. The team arrived in Hong Kong on Monday to start its Asian tour, and will next face AC Milan and Yokohama F. Marinos.

After an open training session at Hong Kong's Kai Tak Stadium, Robertson spoke of the important role that the veterans play in guiding the new players: "Our four leaders, myself, Alisson, Van Dijk and Salah, will take the initiative to get them acclimated as quickly as possible, especially players from different countries and cultural backgrounds. We know how important it is to settle down and find a house. We have all been new and have needed help."

Robertson pointed out that the new players have shown a very high level on the court, but more importantly, they have established connections and a sense of belonging off the court: "This kind of overseas training is crucial. Everyone is away from home. It is a good opportunity to build team relationships. So far, the new players have integrated very naturally and it feels like they have been in the team for several months."

Talking about the preparation progress, Robertson said that the team's condition is gradually getting back on track: "We have been back to training for about two weeks. Now while improving our physical fitness, we also need to get back to the rhythm of the game. Everyone performed very well in training, but the match condition needs to be further improved."

"Liverpool is a team that puts winning first. Whether in training or in games, we maintain a winning mentality. This desire to win and good habits will be an important foundation for the new season."