Newcastle United will play host Liverpool in Sunday’s Premier League outing at St.James Park. The Magpies have excelled their early expectations on their top-flight return, and they are currently in the top half of the table in 10th with nine points. Meanwhile, Liverpool will be disappointed with their start to the campaign, although they are up to fifth in the standings with 11 points.
Rafael Benitez secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw for Newcastle against his ex-club back in April 2016, and a similar result could be satisfactory against one of the most fearsome attacks in the top-flight. Sadio Mane will return for the Sunday afternoon clash following his three-match domestic suspension, and the Magpies backline will have to guard against leaving their respective positions unnecessarily.
Players to watch for:
Joselu – Newcastle United:
Aleksandar Mitrovic is back after his three-match suspension, but he is unlikely to displace Joselu, who has been the main pick for the centre-forward role. The Magpies’ summer signing has just one goal to his name this term, but he could have easily trebled his tally. Joselu missed a string of clear-cut opportunities against ex-club Stoke City earlier this month, but the Magpies still managed to win by a 2-1 scoreline. Joselu will be the main threat to the vulnerable Reds defence, which has conceded 11 goals in just six outings.
Mohamed Salah – Liverpool:
The Egypt international has already notched four goals in the Reds’ league campaign and could have scored more, had he been better with his finishing. Salah has proved a constant menace on the right side of the attack, and he has the opportunity of becoming the first player to score five goals in the first seven league games for the Reds. With Mane on the other flank, the Magpies defence will have their work cut out, should the Merseysiders turn up on the day.
Prediction:
Liverpool win….
Newcastle United 1-3 Liverpool
Image – Getty