The leader of Ipswich Borough Council said he was "excited" and looking forward to seeing the town centre "buzzing" after Ipswich Town's Premier League fixtures were announced.

The Tractor Boys will face Liverpool at home in the first game of the new season, followed by reigning champions Manchester City away.

The authority's leader Neil MacDonald said: "I saw the fixture list this morning and was excited to see that the big guns were coming to Portman Road early, which will start the season with an even bigger bang.

Liverpool stars Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk will visit Portman Road on the first day of the new seasonLiverpool stars Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk will visit Portman Road on the first day of the new season (Image: PA)

READ MORE: Ipswich council leader Neil MacDonald on housing and renting

"My wider family has a lot of Liverpool fans, so I'm hoping for a good result first up.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the town centre full and buzzing on the first Saturday. Uppa Towen!"

Earlier this week, former Town stalwarts such as David Sheepshanks and George Burley said the Tractor Boys should have "no fear" of the Premier League and should be "relishing" the prospect of facing some of the giants of the English game.