Newcastle v Liverpool – Stats, line-up and preview

Match Preview for Newcastle vs Liverpool

The Premier League weekend is rounded off with a tasty encounter between Newcastle and Liverpool at St James’ Park on Monday night.

While often a fixture which produces some classic encounters, this one will have added spice amid speculation over Magpies striker Alexander Isak and his potential switch to Anfield.

Isak will not be involved in this game as his public falling out with Newcastle continues but plenty more stars will be in action in what should be an exciting clash.

Eddie Howe’s men are looking for their first win of the season in their opening home match after drawing 0-0 with Aston Villa as their lack of cutting edge without Isak was exposed.

Liverpool, meanwhile, had no issues going forward in their opening-day win over Bournemouth, but the defensive frailties of the new-look attack-minded side were exposed as they let slip a two-goal lead against the Cherries before eventually prevailling 4-2.

Hugo Ekitike, a one-time target of Newcastle’s, scored a debut goal for Liverpool in the victory at Anfield and will be looking to add another dagger to the hearts of the Geordies, while fellow new signing Florian Wirtz will also be looking to make an impact for his new club.

Despite a summer restricted by PSR issues, the Toon faithful could see a debutant in the game with Jacob Ramsey making a move to Tyneside from Aston Villa, handing them a welcome boost.

Team news for Newcastle vs Liverpool

Liverpool have a decision to make over who will start a right-back with new signing Jeremie Frimpong ruled out until after the international break.

Connor Bradley and Joe Gomez look to be the most suitable replacements but both have only recently returned to training and are lacking in match sharpness, so midfielders Wataru Endo and Dominik Szoboszlai have also been mentions options to slot in on the right of defence.

If Szoboszlai starts there, Ryan Gravenberch could come back in to start after suspension to add some steel to the midfield alongside Alexis Mac Allister.

Newcastle are still without Isak, who is refusing to train as he pushes for a move away from the club after insisting “promises have been broken” in a statement earlier this week.

The only other injury concern is midfielder Joe Willock, who is stepping up his return from an injury and could be involved at least from the bench. Lewis Hall remains a long-term absentee.

Expected line-ups for Newcastle vs Liverpool

Newcastle predicted XI (4-3-3): Pope; Trippier, Botman, Schar, Livramento; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Elanga, Gordon, Barnes

Liverpool predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Eikitike

How to watch Newcastle vs Liverpool: TV channel, stream

UK residents can watch Newcastle live on Sky Sports, with kick-off at 8pm and coverage starting at 6:30pm.