Predicting Liverpool's Starting XI vs. Newcastle United

Liverpool predicted XI v Newcastle United

Liverpool will be riding high from their record-equalling 9-0 victory over Bournemouth as they aim to make it two wins in a row when Newcastle United visit Anfield on August 31st.

The Reds endeared a couple of draws to kick start their season, following it up with a disappointing defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford. They recuperated with a win this Saturday, and how.

It was goals galore against a sorry Bournemouth unit, having gone up 5-0 before the half-time whistle was blown. They would go on to add another four goals in an afternoon illuminated by Roberto Firmino’s two goals and three assists.

There is no time to celebrate for Jurgen Klopp and co., though, due to the uncharacteristically poor start they have experienced in the first three fixtures.

A challenge in the form of Eddie Howe’s refurbished Newcastle United awaits, and they’ll have to be on top of their mark if they are to score goals.

No side, besides Manchester City and Liverpool, has been better defensively since Howe was appointed. The Toons can score goals and play with ferocious intensity; they are very quick to get bodies behind the ball and have Allan Saint-Maximin, who is more than a cult hero at the Tyneside.

For Liverpool, it’ll be quite the mission to contain him, especially after his performances against Manchester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Their last defeat at home to Newcastle was way back in 1994, whilst they have amassed more goals against the Magpies than any other Premier League opponent. After the 9-0 rout, now might be the best time to express themselves even more.

Ahead of a busy calendar, for the first time, Klopp will have selection headaches and the essential need to rotate his troops.

On that note, we look at Liverpool’s probable line-up against Newcastle United.

Goalkeeper & Defence

Alisson Becker, without a shadow of a doubt, is the first name on the team sheet for Klopp. While the attackers were running riot on the other end, the clean sheet against the Cherries will only build his season going forward.

At the back, Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez are expected to continue due to the short-staffed centre-back roster. Against a pacy Newcastle attack that could also see newest addition Alexander Isak run the races at some point, it’s highly unlikely Gomez will be rested even though he has played the full 90 minutes in the last two matches.

Trent Alexander-Arnold reminded the football fraternity of his attacking prowess at right-back with a rocket of a goal and an assist to go with it. He will continue that side.

Andrew Robertson could be the one making way for Kostas Tsimikas on the left, simply because it’s one department where Liverpool have impressive depth and quality.

Midfield

In a three-man midfield, it’s hard to look beyond Fabinho forming the base. His absence against Manchester United exemplified just how crucial he is to Liverpool combating opposition attacks.

Jordan Henderson, who in all fairness and respect, is an outstanding midfielder, has been one of the underwhelming stories thus far. He could make way for an energetic Fabio Carvalho.

Speaking of energetic, Harvey Elliott – who sunk his face into his hands in elation after bagging his first-ever Premier League goal – could be rewarded with another start.

Forwards

No player has netted more Premier League goals at Anfield since Luis Diaz’s first home appearance (six goals in 10 matches). He has been electric on the pitch, having slotted into the side like he had been part of it for a decade, in January.

He will be accompanied by the high-flying Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah. The latter has already scored two goals this season and will be looking to bank some more in front of a boisterous Kop end.