Liverpool forced into late switch before Premier League trophy lift due to concerns

 Liverpool have announced that their team bus will be forced to take a different route before they lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday. The Reds will end their successful campaign this weekend with their final match of a glorious season.

They will take on Crystal Palace, with the game representing their last Premier League outing of the season. An array of celebrations are already expected, while the squad will no doubt receive a wild welcome from supporters attending the game.

But Liverpool have confirmed that their team bus will be forced to take a different entry route into Anfield. A statement from the club on Tuesday read: “The team bus will now travel into the stadium from the direction of Arkles Lane, arriving at approximately 2.30pm, and then go via the Shankly Gates and past the Anfield Road Stand into the stadium.

“The route will be barriered and clearly marked with police and steward support. The decision to use an alternative route into the stadium for this match has been made early based on safety reasons, because everyone’s safety is the number one priority on matchday.

“The new plan means supporters attending the match will have more space to make sure the team get the welcome they deserve without compromising safety.”

The statement added: “LFC’s safety team and Merseyside Police officers will be coordinating the operation. Please support the guidance from police and stewards if asked to move to a safer position in order for the team bus to pass safely and arrive at the stadium in good time.”

And while there has been a slight tweak to their pre-match arrival, Liverpool will certainly be determined to make the most of their celebrations. The last time the club lifted the Premier League crown, it happened in front of no fans due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

One man who has already announced his attendance is the winner of the club’s previous Premier League crown, Jurgen Klopp. Speaking in April, he said: "I will be there for the last game.

“I didn't want to go earlier to be honest because I didn't want to jinx it! They win all the time and I'm the first time in the stadium and they lose! So, I'll go there when it's decided."

Another man who will also be in attendance is former defender Daniel Agger. Speaking to Tipsbladet, he said: “I just have to go over and feel the atmosphere, be in the stadium and see them lift the trophy."