Preseason games are important, according to Robbie Fowler, who says that losing several friendly games can have a "real adverse effect" on the start of the Premier League season
17:47, 28 Jul 2026
Robbie Fowler used to take preseason extremely seriously from a results perspective
Robbie Fowler used to take preseason extremely seriously from a results perspective(Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool beat Sunderland 4-2 in the opening preseason game of the summer, and former striker Robbie Fowler is a "big believer" in securing results even though the competitive edge is lifted.
Preseason is crucial for players to build fitness, for the head coach to assess his best lineup, and for working on tactics ahead of the Premier League kick-off. Usually, fans aren't too concerned about the results, although Liverpool supporters were impressed by Iraola's first performance.
Fowler has made it clear that Liverpool should target winning the Premier League, regardless of whether it's realistic, and believes that results do matter in preseason. Fowler enjoyed the preseason as a player but placed importance on results despite the friendly nature of the games.
The former Liverpool star spoke exclusively with Liverpool.com in New York City ahead of Wednesday's game against Wrexham. After facing Wrexham at Yankee Stadium, Liverpool will travel to Chicago to face Leeds.
After the U.S. preseason tour ends, Liverpool will return to Anfield for games against Monaco and Como before the domestic season begins with an away trip to Newcastle on Aug. 23. Although the pressure is off until then, Fowler believes these games are important.
When asked by Liverpool.com if he enjoyed preseason, Fowler said: "I did because I knew there was a means to an end. There’s a reason why there are preseason games. I’m a big believer in the results as well.
Liverpool beat Sunderland 4-2 in its opening preseason game
Liverpool beat Sunderland 4-2 in its opening preseason game(Image: (Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images))
"I know it’s not for everyone, it’s about getting fit and ready for that first game against Newcastle, we know how important that is. But results bring confidence as well.
"If you go into a season on the back of four or five losses in preseason, mentally it can have a real adverse effect. If you’re putting in performances, working hard, and getting results, gives everyone a lift.
"Gives the staff a lift, the players, more importantly, the fans. We, as a football club, need the fans. We need the fans to start singing and shouting early doors about what we need and what we want. We’ve seen in the past, when the Liverpool fans are vocal and right behind you, you can achieve anything."
Fowler believes that preseason losses can impact the start of the season
Fowler believes that preseason losses can impact the start of the season(Image: Getty Images)
After Liverpool beat Sunderland, the roster was joined by Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Ryan Gravenberch. All three players competed at the World Cup with their respective nations and are available for selection against Wrexham.
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However, although Gravenberch joined his Liverpool teammates, fellow Dutchman Virgil van Dijk has instead reported for training back home in the United Kingdom alongside Cody Gakpo. The decision has surprised some Liverpool fans, but Gravenberch is delighted with the team vibe over in the U.S.
"Yeah, I think everyone is happy," he said. "Everyone is happy to be here. I spoke with a few of the lads, and they said the training sessions are really nice.
"They are intense as well, but really nice. So, yeah, everyone is excited, I think."