Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is expecting a very tough test against Newcastle tonight, and has heaped praise on the Toon boss Eddie Howe.
The Reds did the double over Newcastle last season, with Howe in charge of both fixtures. We didn’t have enough to truly challenge Liverpool, but things look different this season.
We’ve already gone toe-to-toe with Manchester City, drawing 3-3 at St James’ Park the other week.
However, this will be an even tougher task. We’re away from home, and will be missing some of our key players. Callum Wilson is out with a hamstring problem, and it looks like Bruno Guimaraes and Allan Saint-Maximin will miss out too.
But Howe will have plan to ensure his side are competitive, as he looks to nullify a Liverpool attack that scored nine goals at the weekend.
Klopp’s side battered Bournemouth 9-0 on Saturday, and it sounds like he is expecting a tougher game tonight.
Klopp on Howe at Newcastle
Ahead of the game, Klopp praised the impact of Howe at Newcastle in his programme notes.
“Tonight we face an opponent who are probably the most improved team in the Premier League this year,” he wrote.
“I have always respected and admired Eddie Howe and the job he is doing at Newcastle United is brilliant. It should not surprise anyone either. It has long been clear that Eddie has a philosophy, a way of playing and a way of working that would benefit whichever club he works for.
“Newcastle made a good decision to appoint him and it is continuing to pay off.
“We saw the best face of his team in their recent draw against Manchester City which showed how aggressive they can be with the ball and also how creative they can be even against a side with as much quality as City.”
Newcastle might struggle to match Man City levels
Klopp is incredibly complimentary towards Howe. And he’s right, we are absolutely the most improved Premier League team in 2022. The transformation has been sensational. Howe’s way of playing has translated into results, and the future is looking very bright for Newcastle.
However, the current focus is on Liverpool. While Newcastle were aggressive against Man City and found a way to hurt them, that might not be possible at Anfield.
If we don’t have Bruno, our midfield will be seriously lacking. He has incredible ability to win possession and protect it, capable of breaking the lines with his wonderful passing.
Sean Longstaff will likely start in his place, but is nowhere near the Brazilian’s level.
Another issue is Saint-Maximin’s injury. He was the secret to our success against Man City, giving Kyle Walker a torrid time. All three of our goals came through him.
But if he isn’t in the team, Newcastle will need to find another way of penetrating Liverpool on the break.
There won’t be a lot of confidence from Toon fans, as two great managers prepare to go head-to-head.
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