Adam Brown @AdamMNVi
Newcastle United are up next as Liverpool kept Villarreal parked inside their half for 90 minutes on Wednesday night. Lunchtime kick-offs always have an aura of uncertainty about them — with Jurgen Klopp often feeling the need to lift the fans to maintain the same level of atmosphere for home games.
With the timing of Klopp’s new deal, the Reds should be confident coming into this one as they come up agianst a Newcastle side who might be looking to play slightly more progressive than usual. That did get them hurt in their 5-1 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, but infront of a St. James’ Park crowd, Eddie Howe could make a statement by instructing his players to attack.
Here’s how we should line up:
A full strength XI is needed in one of the tightest races for the league title in history. With Newcastle proving to be dangerous in the air in recent weeks, I’ve gone for Ibrahima Konate to keep his place ahead of Matip. No changes from the Villarreal game.
Fabinho, Thiago and Naby Keita start to maximise the press while using Keita’s attacking quality. The Guinea international was excellent away at Benfica, and a repeat performance could secure all three points here. If Newcastle do end up playing with a deep line, Keita is also a great weapon for his threat outside of the box.
Klopp might rest one from midweek to keep things fresh, but it’s tough to take any out of the team at the moment. Luis Diaz, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah start upfront, with Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino to make an impact from the bench if needed.
Score prediction: Newcastle United 0 – 2 Liverpool
How does Ross think we will line up? Check out the starting XI prediction show below!
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