Liverpool
Liverpool find themselves in a challenging period under Arne Slot. Despite a midweek 3–0 victory over Qarabag, their domestic form has stuttered, most recently suffering a 3–2 loss to Bournemouth. They currently sit 14 points behind leaders Arsenal.
The biggest concern is Liverpool’s defence. With Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Jeremie Frimpong all sidelined, Slot has been forced to utilise Wataru Endo as a makeshift centre back alongside Virgil van Dijk.
Their attack is also missing a major piece in Alexander Isak, who joined from Newcastle for a record £125 million fee last September but is currently out with a fractured fibula. In his absence, Hugo Ekitike has stepped up as the primary goal threat, supported by Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz.
Team News: Isak, Konate, Gomez, and Frimpong are confirmed out. Milos Kerkez is expected to start at left back.
Predicted Lineup: Alisson; Robertson, Van Dijk, Endo, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo.
Newcastle United
Newcastle are struggling with consistency as they sit just inside the top 10. Their form has been a mix of high-scoring results and defensive lapses, as seen by their recent 2–0 loss to Aston Villa following a 4–3 thriller against Leeds.
It’s worth noting that the Magpies haven’t won a league game at Anfield since 1994, and Eddie Howe’s squad is stretched thin right now. Joelinton is out with a groin injury, and Sandro Tonali remains a doubt after picking up a knock against Villa.
Anthony Gordon will be the primary outlet on the wing, while Nick Woltemade continues to lead the line following his record move from Stuttgart. Newcastle are still finding the right balance in attack after the departure of Isak to Merseyside.
Team News: Joelinton and Botman are out. Bruno Guimaraes is fit to train but may face a late fitness test.
Predicted Lineup: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Willock; Gordon, Woltemade, Elanga.
