Newcastle United will clash heads with Liverpool at St. James’ Park on Saturday afternoon, hoping to produce a positive result on their home turf. The Reds will be heading into the contest on the back of a 2-0 win against Villarreal in the first leg of the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, whereas the Magpies recorded a comfortable 3-0 victory over Norwich City.
Team News
Kieran Trippier (foot injury) and Callum Wilson (Achilles injury) are unlikely to feature in the weekend clash.
“They’re still on track, nothing has changed over the last few days. They’re still on track to hopefully play (again) this season.” – Eddie Howe said last week.
Ryan Fraser remains sidelined with a hamstring problem.
The English tactician will probably opt for the 4-3-3 formation; however, he might make a few changes for the upcoming home encounter. Fabian Schar might get the nod over Jamaal Lascelles in defence, whereas Chris Wood looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
4-3-3 Newcastle United Predicted Lineup Vs Liverpool
Defence
Martin Dubravka will continue to operate in between the sticks for the hosts. The Slovak shot-stopper would hope to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Saturday.
Eddie Howe is expected to field the defensive duo of Fabian Schar and Dan Burn at the heart of the Magpies’ backline. Their main objective would be to track and close down the potential openings the Liverpool front-men might create.
Emil Krafth is a guaranteed starter at the right wing-back spot, whereas Matt Targett will fill in on the other flank as the left wing-back.
Midfield
Joelinton and Jonjo Shelvey are expected to start in the central midfield positions, whereas Bruno Guimaraes will slot in as the defensive midfielder. The duo would be determined to set up some clear-cut goal-scoring chances for the front men.
Joe Willock will have to settle for a place on the bench but could come on in the second half of the game if needed.
Attack
Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin will take up the wide positions, playing down the right and left-wing, respectively.
Chris Wood will lead the line for the hosts against Liverpool this weekend. The striker would hope to get his name on the scoresheet when he faces off against the defence that has kept three clean sheets in their last five matches across all competitions.
