Newcastle vs Liverpool - Match preview, possible line-ups and prediction
A new season has arrived, marking a new era at Newcastle United following a serious summer of change at St James' Park.
Eddie Howe out, Matthias Jaissle in, a new transfer policy that's seen us sign six players (up to now) all aged 24 or under, and some high-profile exits as Kieran Trippier's release was followed by big-money exits for Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes.
Pre-season hasn't been pretty, which is no real surprise in the circumstances, and there is a mixture of anxiety, uncertainty and hope in the air as 'Newcastle United 2.0' prepare to face Liverpool.
So many subplots exist heading into this one. Two new managers collide, Alexander Isak returns for the first time, an emotional Kevin Keegan tribute awaits, and several new signings could make their full debuts, with Hornicek, Jaouen Dedic, Steur, Bamba and Toure all set to be in the squad.
Who starts?
Predicted Newcastle XI: Hornicek - Dedic, Thiaw, Botman, Hall - Steur, Ramsey - Murphy, Wissa, Toure - Osula.
At the back, Lukas Hornicek looks set to get the nod, with new signing Amar Dedic "ready" to play at right-back now Tino Livramento remains out. Lewis Hall slots in down the left and Malick Thiaw is nailed on, leaving the big debate: Sven Boman or Dan Burn? If both were match fit, it would be club captain Burn, but he's only managed 45 minutes of pre-season, leaning me towards the Dutchman, despite several poor displays this summer.
In midfield, I don't think Lewis Miley will be rushed back after only 45 minutes of action since his leg fracture in May, and I'm not sure Jaissle will throw an edgy Aladji Bamba straight in at the deep end, while Joelinton is out injured. With all that in mind, I see Jaissle pairing of the classy and calm Sean Steur with the box-to-box Jacob Ramsey, who played very well against Strasbourg before his late error and penalty miss.
In attack, it's anyone's guess out wide. Barnes' experience vs Toure's pace and unpredictability? Murphy's delivery vs Elanga's raw pace? I think we'll see a mix, so I'm going with Toure down the left and Murphy on the right, with Yoane Wissa in a second striker role just behind Will Osula.
Predicted Liverpool XI: Alisson - Frimpong, Araujo, Van Dijk, Kerkez - Gravenberch, Szoboslai - Ngumoha, Wirtz, Gakpo - Isak.
Who wins?
Wouldn't it be fitting, as Keegan watches on from above, if it's a high-scoring game full of drama, excitement and energy?
Well, I think that's what we might get. I back us to come flying out of the traps and St James' Park to be rocking in the early stages, energised by Keegan, Isak boos, and the injection of new life both Jaissle and fresh faces on the pitch will bring.
However, I still worry about gaps at the back and a young midfield still learning both Jaissle's system and the demands of Premier League football, meaning Wirtz and Szoboszlai could be the danger men we struggle to contain.
Prediction: Newcastle 2-2 Liverpool
Here's to the new era. Howay the lads!
