Liverpool will head to Newcastle missing their key players.
Liverpool Face Stern Test at Newcastle Amid Injury Woes and Tactical Dilemmas
Liverpool head to St James’ Park on Monday night aware that they’re facing one of their toughest early-season challenges. Though they scraped a narrow win over Bournemouth in their opener, defensive lapses raised concerns for new manager Arne Slot, who will be seeking a more composed performance against Newcastle.
Isak Saga Looms Over the Fixture
The build-up to the game has been overshadowed by the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker, keen on a move to Anfield, has been training separately and won’t feature in this match — a notable absence, though Newcastle remain a potent threat, particularly under the lights at home.
Right-Side Defensive Crisis
Slot’s biggest headache lies in defence. Jeremie Frimpong is sidelined with a hamstring injury until after the international break. Conor Bradley has just resumed training after injury and remains doubtful, while Joe Gomez is still short of full fitness after a long layoff.
This leaves Liverpool with no fully fit right-back. Slot may opt for an unorthodox solution, potentially deploying Dominik Szoboszlai in the role. The Hungarian midfielder, who has been trialed there during pre-season, offers energy and ball progression — qualities that could prove vital in maintaining control during a tough away fixture.
Gravenberch Boosts Midfield
On a positive note, Ryan Gravenberch returns from suspension to bolster the midfield. His presence alongside Alexis Mac Allister should offer more solidity in the middle, which was a weak point against Bournemouth. Florian Wirtz is expected to take up an attacking midfield role behind the front line.
Attacking Line Stays the Same
Liverpool’s attack is likely to remain unchanged. Mohamed Salah, in pursuit of another Premier League milestone, will start on the right, while Hugo Ekitike — impressive on his debut — leads the line. Cody Gakpo should continue on the left but needs to deliver a more consistent display after an underwhelming showing last weekend.
Newcastle’s Strong Squad Despite Isak Absence
Eddie Howe’s side are close to full strength. Joe Willock is fit again, and new arrivals Jacob Ramsey and Malick Thiaw are pushing for their first appearances. With Isak unavailable, Anthony Gordon is expected to play centrally, supported by a midfield of Sandro Tonali, Joelinton, and Bruno Guimaraes.
Key Tactical Battle
Much will depend on how Liverpool cope on the right-hand side. If Szoboszlai is chosen to fill in at right-back, he’ll likely face pressure from Harvey Barnes and the drifting Gordon. Slot’s decision — whether to risk undercooked defenders like Gomez or Bradley, or to roll the dice with Szoboszlai — could be decisive.
Expected Line-up (4-2-3-1):
Liverpool: Alisson; Szoboszlai (or Bradley), Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike
Injury doubts: Gomez, Bradley
Unavailable: Frimpong
