Newcastle United put their sensational home run on the line this afternoon against Liverpool.
It’s the penultimate home game of the season for the Magpies, and it’s a huge one for our opponents. Jurgen Klopp’s side can go back to the top of the Premier League, as they continue to chase the quadruple.
Eddie Howe has a real job on his hands, but his hard work is done. He’s taken the Toon from relegation fodder to the top half.
But who will he pick as he attempts to derail Liverpool’s title charge?
Fabian Schar returns to the lineup with his new contract
Fabian Schar missed the 3-0 win over Norwich, sitting on the bench after being replaced by skipper Jamaal Lascelles.
But with a new contract signed and sealed, we expect the Swiss defender to return to the starting XI.
That should be the only change in defence. Howe could shift to a back five, but we believe he’ll be brave and stick with a four.
Changes in midfield for Newcastle
Howe mixed up his midfield at Norwich, recalling Sean Longstaff and £25million man Joe Willock. However, we expect normality to resume against Liverpool.
Jonjo Shelvey should return to the middle of the park against his former club, and will wear the captain’s armband.
Joelinton started up front against Norwich and was then moved out wide, bagging his first ever Premier League brace. However, we need his energy in a central role this afternoon.
Howe’s midfield three should be the same as the one that played in victories over Wolves, Leicester and Crystal Palace.
Miguel Almiron is enjoying a fine run of form, and will hopefully be recalled to the starting XI in place of Jacob Murphy.
Chris Wood physicality needed to face Liverpool and Virgil van Dijk
Chris Wood didn’t feature last week, but we didn’t really miss him. Allan Saint-Maximin eventually found himself up front, and the Frenchman did well.
However, Wood’s physical presence should earn him a start against Liverpool. We need his strength and power up against Virgil van Dijk – one of the best defenders in the world not called Dan Burn.
Wood’s return up top will allow Saint-Maximin to move to the left, where he is most comfortable.
Predicted lineup to face Liverpool: Dubravka; Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett; Almiron, Bruno, Shelvey, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin; Wood.
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