Arne Slot says one Eddie Howe decision completely baffled him from the stands in Newcastle United loss

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Liverpool manager Arne Slot was forced to watch from the stands as his side defeated Newcastle United at Anfield.

Newcastle United made the trip to Merseyside hoping to get one over their upcoming Carabao Cup finalist opponents, while also maintaining their push for Champions League qualification.

However, goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister meant Newcastle’s wretched record at Anfield continued.

Eddie Howe was disappointed with Newcastle’s performance, with Nick Pope struggling in goal after pipping Martin Dubravka to a starting spot.

Newcastle were also without an injured Alexander Isak so Callum Wilson led the line for the Magpies. However, Liverpool fans mocked Wilson’s display after he struggled to make an impact.

Arne Slot surprised by Eddie Howe’s tactical tweak

With Joelinton, Sven Botman and Isak all missing, Howe mixed things up with his tactical approach.

Unlike Howe’s tactical masterclass against Arsenal earlier this month, Howe’s decision to play Anthony Gordon central alongside Wilson didn’t have the same effect.

After the full-time whistle, Liverpool boss Arne Slot pointed out Newcastle’s change of approach, especially when it came to pressing.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Slot said: “I don’t think that means so much because I saw a different Newcastle tonight than a few months ago.

“I don’t know if that is for a reason. Normally they press in a 4-5-1 and today they did a 4-4-2 and Isak and Joelinton were not there. We can expect something different in a few weeks.”

Newcastle will set up differently in Carabao Cup final

Unlike Wednesday’s trip, the Carabao Cup final next month will be played at a neutral venue.

Hopefully, Joelinton should be fit for the final, while Botman and Isak can also expect to start at Wembley.

Howe has often set up Newcastle to counter-attack away from home, and that was clearly the plan at Anfield, too. But at Wembley, Newcastle should return to their usual 4-3-3 system with everyone available.

READ MORE: Rafa Benitez responds when asked if Newcastle United can beat Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final

Slot recognised this in his comments, and Newcastle drew 3-3 with Liverpool in the reverse fixture when Howe opted for a 4-3-3 system.

While some Newcastle fans may be deflated about Wednesday’s result, the tactical set up at Wembley will likely be very different.