Predicted Liverpool line-up to face Newcastle United in the Premier League
Liverpool will be aiming to strengthen their place at the top of the table when they face Newcastle United in this Boxing Day fixture at Anfield. After Manchester City’s loss to Crystal Palace and the Reds’ win over Wolves, the Reds are now four points clear of the Cityzens. Both the title hopefuls will, of course, meet each other on the 3rd of January.
However, that is all for the future. Right now, Jurgen Klopp’s men need to concentrate on beating Newcastle. Rafa Benitez’s men have been in decent form in the past month or so. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Merseysiders to break down a stubborn deep-defending side.
Team News
Joe Gomez and Joel Matip are out for this game, while Naby Keita will have a late fitness test. Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to be fit for this game. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is a long-term absentee.
Probable Liverpool XI
Formation: 4-3-3
Manager: Jurgen Klopp
Alisson Becker (GK)
The Brazilian has been an important player in this fantastic run for the Reds. His saves and calmness on the ball are exceptional.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB)
He is fit now and should start this game to gain some much-needed match fitness ahead of two mammoth games.
Dejan Lovren (CB)
With Matip and Gomez out, expect Lovren to continue his charge in central defence alongside van Dijk.
Virgil van Dijk (CB)
The Dutchman has been just phenomenal since arriving at Anfield. The performance against Wolves was an epitome of his greatness as a player.
Alberto Moreno (LB)
This game would be the right time to rest Andy Robertson and give Moreno a game, with Arsenal and City games around the corner.
Jordan Henderson (CDM)
The captain played really well against Wolves and should continue to keep his place in the midfield.
Georginio Wijnaldum (RCM)
The Dutchman was rested and came off the bench very late on against Wolves. He should be fresh to start on Wednesday.
Adam Lallana (LCM)
Keita was half-fit while Milner played at right-back on Friday. Hence, both would do with a rest. Time for Lallana to step up.
Xherdan Shaqiri (RW)
The Swiss has been a real influence from the bench whenever required. He deserves to start this game with Salah deserving a rest.
Daniel Sturridge (ST)
He is expected to start this game with Roberto Firmino deserving a rest.
Sadio Mane (LW)
The Senegalese could start this game as he wasn’t used too much in the past two games.
