There is an early winner in the ‘most predictable quote of the 2019-20 season’ competition.

Jurgen Klopp’s declaration Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Adam Lallana and Rhian Brewster are ‘new players’ confirmed the most significant return on investment Liverpool anticipate this season is from within.

“If Ox can stay fit – new player for us,” said Klopp. “Rhian the same; he is a really big talent. So, new player.

“Like Joe Gomez is pretty much a new player. Adam Lallana, new player.”

Three new signings before the first pre-season fixture and – if we follow the same logic – more to come.

Liverpool need Naby Keita to find another level once he has put his injury troubles behind him. So too Xherdan Shaqiri, who started well but was more erratic as the season progressed in his debut campaign.