Albeit without the ferocity of years gone by, this fixture still gives a respectful nod of English footballing heritage. Newcastle is still within touching distance of the summit, Liverpool (well in truth) in touching distance of either end of the league table!
To Win Match
Newcastle 31/20 | Draw 12/5 | Liverpool 13/8
Newcastle
Newcastle remains an incredibly well-balanced team under manager Eddie Howe. Yes, they have shown they can be expansive and aggressive going forward but they can also be patient on defense and hurt their opposition on the counter.
Bruno Guimaraes has been missed in recent weeks, but I suspect the media have made a meal of that. Of course, the team are better with their talisman, but Newcastle haven’t exactly suffered in his absence either.
The Magpies have shown a knack for getting themselves over the line, getting the job done and finding a way to the all-important points. Lest we forget they are currently in fourth place in the Premier League (arguably the most difficult league in the world) and we are past the halfway point! Of course, their money will begin to count for something in the years to come, but if this is the platform – best we put some respect on their name!
They are unbeaten in their last seven fixtures, a feat which dwarfs their opponents Liverpool’s run of results…there is no reason St. James’ Park won’t be bouncing here and I think if they start the game brightly and bring their passionate supporters into the game early they come away with all three.
Predicted Line-up: Pope, Burn, Botman, Schar, Trippier, Longstaff, Wilcock, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin, Almiron, Isak.
Liverpool
I think the derby win would have done a whole lot for the confidence and attitude in the Liverpool camp. Enough has already been made about their horrible performances, and whilst I don’t think they were outstanding at Anfield, they showed characteristics often associated with the club.
I felt as though there was a shift after Everton hit the crossbar, their dangerous and often measured attacking approach seemed to once again rear its head and they kicked on to win the game somewhat comfortably.
This is going to be a tough game for them though, I think Newcastle ask more questions of their defensive shape. Newcastle will want more of the ball. Newcastle will also want to hold on to as much of the momentum St James’ will generate.
Predicted Line-up: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dyk, Robertson, Henderson, Fabinho, Bajcetic, Salah, Nunez, Gakpo.
Verdict: Newcastle Win (31/20)
I don’t think there is any real reason to believe that Liverpool have completely turned the corner just yet. Newcastle are having one of their greatest seasons in the modern era whilst their visitors have been embarrassing.
I would go as far as to say the Magpies deserve going into this one as the favourites.
