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Liverpool fans have had August 28th circled on their calendars since the moment it was announced as the day that the Champions League group stage groups would be drawn. Back in Europe after five years, the club and fans alike are eagerly anticipating which continental clubs they'll be drawn against in their quest to reclaim honours in Europe's top club competition.
But before all that happens, there's the small issue of the League Cup. The draw for the third round of England's lesser domestic cup tournament took place on Wednesday, and Liverpool lucked out with a match to be played at Anfield against Championship side Middlesbrough. Liverpool last played Boro in February 2009 in the Premier League, when the Reds lost 2-0 in an away match that preceded an unbeaten streak of ten wins and one draw to see out the remainder of the season.
Liverpool went out in the third round last season after a 1-0 loss to rivals Manchester United. Unfortunately, Liverpool were not fated to meet the Red Devils in a third round tie this year as earlier this week they fell to League One giants Milton Keynes Dons, who themselves drew a more difficult opponent in Bradford City this round.
The League Cup third round will be played the week of September 22. Middlesbrough finished 12th in the Championship in 2013-14.
