The first observation about Liverpool’s arrival in South Bend is the eerie quiet in Indiana.

Thousands did not line the streets. No banners heralded the players arrival as the team coach made its merry way towards their base at Notre Dame University.

With the honourable exception of James Milner, it was the closest the Liverpool players will get to experiencing a Manchester City open top bus parade.

Passers-by looked on aware that somebody renowned was in the neighbourhood, but exhibited impressive signs of apathy upon hearing their identities.

“Who is Liverpool’s most famous player?” asked a perfectly civil and inquisitive but exceedingly clueless local chap.

“Mo Salah. But he’s not here. Virgil van Dijk is a star, too.”

“Who?”

“Don’t worry. They’re all pretty famous in Europe. Honest.”