Liverpool VS Newcastle Prediction: Anfield breathes anticipation, a crackling tension that thrums through the stands and ignites the pitch. Liverpool, perched like a red king on the Premier League throne, face a challenger rising from the north: Newcastle United, a rejuvenated beast shaking off years of slumber.
Can Klopp’s Reds defend their throne against the resurgent tide? Or will the Magpies, fueled by newfound belief, silence the Kop and rewrite the landscape of the Premier League? The stage is set, the lights ignite, and two titans of English football stand toe-to-toe, ready to unleash a battle for the ages.
Liverpool VS Newcastle Head to Head
Liverpool have maintained an undefeated streak across 14 league encounters against Newcastle since their 2-0 loss at St James’ Park in December 2015, just two months into Jurgen Klopp’s managerial tenure.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have failed to secure a win in 27 consecutive away games against Liverpool across all competitions (with 5 draws and 22 losses). Their last triumph at Anfield was in the League Cup fourth round back in November 1995, and their sole Premier League victory there dates back to April 1994.
In the context of previous New Year’s Day league meetings between these teams, all three encounters were Newcastle’s home matches during their top-flight campaigns. Out of these, Newcastle emerged victorious in two games and settled for a draw in the other.
Current Form:
Liverpool: WWWDDW
Liverpool has been in excellent form, securing four wins and two draws from their previous six Premier League matches. Their confidence is high, especially after their recent victory against Burnley on Boxing Day, propelling them to the top of the table. Furthermore, they remain unbeaten in their last six encounters against Newcastle United.
Newcastle: WLLWLL
Newcastle United is enduring a difficult phase, having lost four of their last six Premier League fixtures. Their most recent setback was a surprising defeat at home against Nottingham Forest on Boxing Day, a result that stunned many. The Magpies have also faced defeats against Luton Town, Chelsea, and AC Milan during this period.
Liverpool VS Newcastle Team News
Klopp’s Reds enter the match missing a staggering six players to injury concerns. Familiar faces like Tsimikas, Matip, Thiago, and Robertson will be conspicuous by their absence. While Mac Allister could make a last-minute cameo, a starting berth seems far-fetched. This paves the way for potential recalls for Szoboszlai, Konate, and Diaz, eager to prove their worth after being benched against Burnley.
Endo, the unsung hero, steps into the spotlight.
Despite the absent faces, a glimmer of hope shines through in the form of Wataru Endo. His sterling performances in December as the midfield anchor solidified his position as a reliable option. Expect him to reprise his role, providing defensive stability and allowing the likes of Szoboszlai and Gravenberch to push forward.
Newcastle: From double digits to a manageable eight.
While the medical bay remains a bustling hub for the Magpies, the good news is that their absentee list has shrunk considerably. Tonali’s betting ban remains a heavy blow, but with eight players still sidelined, Howe finds himself with more options than before.
Joelinton rising and Burn under the microscope.
The Brazilian forward’s return to fitness could see him challenge Sean Longstaff for a starting spot, especially considering the impressive impact of young Miley. In defense, Burn’s place might be under threat from the energetic Livramento, although his aerial prowess could be crucial against the towering Van Dijk.
Predicted Starting XIs:
Liverpool:
(4-3-3)
- Alisson
- Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez
- Szoboszlai, Endo, Gravenberch
- Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Newcastle:
(4-3-3)
- Dubravka
- Trippier, Schar, Botman, Livramento
- Joelinton, Guimaraes, Miley
- Almiron, Isak, Gordon
Prediction
Remember August’s Anfield thriller? Liverpool’s miraculous comeback against Newcastle etched a 10th “come-from-behind” victory into Premier League lore, the most for any fixture in the competition’s history. But on New Year’s Day, the script flips. Forget heroics – Liverpool should paint Anfield red from the opening whistle.
Klopp’s men may still be polishing their finishing touches, but the worries seem minor compared to Newcastle’s away woes. The Magpies haven’t cracked the road-win code yet, and their Anfield curse stretches back decades.
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