Liverpool, without Raheem Sterling, arrived in Bangkok on 13 July, a day ahead of their pre-season friendly against True Thai All Stars, an all-star select side.

The Reds – led by manager Brendan Rodgers, captain Jordan Henderson and defender Martin Skrtel – were greeted by a Thai welcoming committee at Suvarnabhumi Airports VIP Terminal.

A crowd of Liverpool fans were present to meet the players, with news of Raheem Sterlings £49m ($76.1m) the main topic of conversation.

I like Raheems speed but then the team has to come first, Liverpool must come before anything. It is impossible that a player would be more important than the club, said 38-year-old Nitiphun Triton.

If he doesnt want to stay with the team, thats okay. I wish him all the best with the path that he choses, Nutlada Somsook, 21, added.

Sterling was not named in the squad to fly out for Liverpools tour of Asia and Australia.