Liverpool Look to Extend Lead at Newcastle: Key Team News and Viewing Information | OneFootball

Premier League Showdown: Newcastle Host Table-Toppers Liverpool

Liverpool, perched nine points clear at the Premier League summit, head north to Newcastle tonight for what promises to be an intriguing clash. Fresh off a stellar week, Arne Slot’s side secured back-to-back 2-0 wins at home against European giants Real Madrid and domestic challengers Manchester City. Those triumphs underlined their relentless dominance, yet tonight’s fixture offers a new test on the road.

Liverpool’s Commanding Form on the Road

Arne Slot’s men have enjoyed a near-perfect campaign on their travels this season. Their only blemish came during a pulsating 2-2 draw at Arsenal, a game that showcased both resilience and room for improvement. Otherwise, Liverpool have been imperious, blending attacking flair with defensive solidity. Mohamed Salah’s scintillating form, coupled with the team’s tactical discipline, makes them the side to beat.

Photo: IMAGO

However, Newcastle United, under Eddie Howe, represent a different challenge altogether. With European qualification on their radar, the Magpies will be keen to disrupt Liverpool’s momentum.

Newcastle’s Up-and-Down Season

Consistency has eluded Newcastle in recent weeks. Despite morale-boosting victories over Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, unexpected setbacks—such as a loss to West Ham and a frustrating draw with Crystal Palace—have stymied their progress. That said, St James’ Park has been a fortress on occasion, with Newcastle proving capable of producing stirring performances against top opposition.

Victory tonight could propel the Magpies into the Premier League’s top half, providing a timely boost for their European ambitions. Howe’s squad, however, faces injury concerns that may complicate their task.

Team News and Selection Woes

For Newcastle, Alexander Isak remains a significant doubt, having not trained since sustaining an injury against Crystal Palace. Long-term absentees Jamal Lascelles, Emil Krafth, and Sven Botman are also unavailable, leaving Howe with a thinner squad to choose from.

Liverpool are similarly grappling with absences. Kostas Tsimikas, Ibrahima Konaté, and Conor Bradley are all ruled out, limiting defensive options for Slot. Meanwhile, Alisson Becker’s anticipated return from injury remains on hold. Slot addressed the situation with typical clarity: “I think I have been clear a few weeks ago about what my position is about our goalkeepers, but we are just waiting for Alisson to be completely fit because Caoimhin is doing too well to put Alisson on goal if he’s only 50%.” Slot added that Alisson could return before the end of December if his recovery continues as expected.

Where to Watch and Match Prediction

Tonight’s game kicks off at 7:30 pm GMT and will be available live on Amazon Prime Video. UK viewers can also catch free highlights later on BBC One’s Match of the Day.

As for the outcome, Newcastle’s record against the league’s elite offers hope. They’ve claimed wins against Arsenal and Tottenham while holding Manchester City to a draw at St James’ Park. Yet, Liverpool’s current form makes them overwhelming favourites. With Salah in imperious touch and the team brimming with confidence, a win for the Reds seems the likeliest outcome.