Andy Robertson, the Scotland captain, returns to Anfield for the first time since leaving Liverpool for Tottenham on a free transfer this summer, setting up a Carabao Cup third-round clash with Tottenham on September 7. The match marks the culmination of his nine successful years at Liverpool, where he established himself as one of the world's best left backs and became a fan favourite. The Independent Football outlet reported the fixture details, confirming the third-round tie will be played at Anfield under the Carabao Cup format.
What the fee means for the summer budget
Robertson's free transfer to Tottenham represents a significant financial saving for Liverpool, as the club avoids paying his wages while still benefiting from his experience in the squad rotation. The club's current Premier League standing shows 10th place with 1 point from 1 game, 0 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses, and a goal difference of 0, with 2 goals scored and 2 conceded this season. This financial flexibility supports their ongoing efforts to manage the wage bill ahead of the next fixture against Nottingham Forest on August 29, 2026.
Where he fits in the current squad
Robertson's return to Anfield comes as Liverpool navigates a demanding schedule, with the Carabao Cup third-round fixtures scheduled across weeks commencing September 7 and 14. The five Premier League clubs competing in the Champions League will face additional fixture congestion, as the eight teams involved in European competitions cannot play each other in this round. His experience at the highest level will be valuable as Liverpool prepares for their next home game against Nottingham Forest, who sit 15th in the table with 2 points behind leaders Brighton.
The broader Carabao Cup landscape
The Carabao Cup third-round ties include several high-profile matchups, with Coventry City facing Aston Villa in a Midlands derby and Arsenal taking on Ipswich Town. Manchester United will play Brighton & Hove Albion, while Everton host Wolverhampton Wanderers. Chelsea could host Leeds United if they defeat Luton Town, and Sunderland could host Hull City. Manchester City will host Norwich City, and Bournemouth will host Crystal Palace. The fixtures will be held across the weeks commencing September 7 and 14, with the Chelsea vs Luton Town and Fulham vs AFC Wimbledon ties scheduled for Thursday night.
What this means for the next phase
Robertson's return to Anfield occurs as Liverpool prepares for a crucial sequence of matches, including their next fixture against Nottingham Forest on August 29, 2026. The club's current form shows a draw in their opening game, with 2 goals scored and 2 conceded this season, placing them 2 points behind Brighton in the title race. His experience will be vital as Liverpool aims to progress in the Carabao Cup while managing their Premier League campaign, with the next fixture against Nottingham Forest at home on August 29, 2026.
Key player developments
Savio made his debut for Tottenham in a 5-1 Carabao Cup second-round win over Charlton, scoring in the 82nd minute after coming on as a substitute in the 71st minute. Meanwhile, Thierno Barry scored a hat-trick for Everton in their 4-0 second-round victory at Preston, providing an assist for Brennan Johnson, who scored his first goal in 35 games for Everton. Harvey Barnes scored a second-half brace for Newcastle in their 3-2 win over West Brom, while Isaac Price put West Brom ahead with a free-kick in their match.
Squad and fixture context
Liverpool's current Premier League standing shows 10th place with 1 point from 1 game, 0 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses, and a goal difference of 0, with 2 goals scored and 2 conceded this season. The next fixture against Nottingham Forest on August 29, 2026, will be at home, with Forest sitting 15th in the table. The Carabao Cup third-round matches will be held across the weeks commencing September 7 and 14, with the five Premier League clubs in the Champions League facing additional fixture congestion. The eight teams involved in the Champions League and Europa League cannot play each other in this round, ensuring balanced scheduling.
Final preparations
The match will be played under the Carabao Cup third-round format, with the fixture scheduled for September 7. The Independent Football outlet confirmed the details, noting that the fixture is part of a broader schedule that includes several high-profile matchups across the competition. Robertson's return to Anfield represents a full-circle moment in his career, as he transitions from Tottenham back to the club where he became a key figure in their domestic and European campaigns. fixtures squad stats standings
