Liverpool is set to face Newcastle United in Premier League Gameweek 14 after the 2-0 win against Manchester City on the weekend, expanding their gap to nine points with the second place. After seven wins in a row, the Reds travel to St. James Park hoping to continue their perfect streak.
On the other hand, Eddie Howe’s side does not have the best start of the season, placed at the 11th spot with 19 points, 15 less than Liverpool. Currently, Newcastle has five wins, four draws, and four losses in 13 Premier League games, and now they will try to receive points in their own yard against a tough opponent.
The main striker, Alexander Isak, is expected to not be available against the Reds due to an injury he got in the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace on the weekend. This could be a huge boost for Anre Slot’s side, knowing that the Sweden striker is the best goalscorer in the team with four goals in the league.
Liverpool also will be without many key players for tonight’s clash due to their injuries in recent weeks. Ibrahima Konate is reported to return to the pitch in mid-January due to an injury he received against Real Madrid.
Kostas Tsmikas, who posted a photo celebrating in crutches after the derby win against Manchester City, won’t be available to help his team tonight.
Conor Bradley also will be watching the game on the sidelines, due to an injury after the incredible performance in the last Champions League night at Anfield.
Caoimhin Kelleher will once again start in goal for Liverpool as Alisson Becker’s injury progress is taking more time due to his hamstring injury in the 1-0 win against Crystal Palace. Since Alisson’s injury, the Irishman has been excellent for the Reds, keeping the goal clean five times in 10 games.
Liverpool’s summer signing, Federico Chiesa, is still unavailable for Arne Slot’s plans. He has already returned to training but needs more time to return to his best. The Italian has featured only three times for the Reds, playing only 79 minutes.
And lastly, Diogo Jota’s injury is taking long after leaving the pitch in pain in the 2-1 win against Chelsea in October. The Portuguese was a key player for the team, making a lot of goal contributions most of the time as a starter, but currently, nothing has been confirmed about a possible return.
