Liverpool face former manager Rafael Benitez and Newcastle at St James’ Park this weekend, looking to keep the pressure on league leaders Manchester City.
Here’s all you need to know about this weekend’s Premier League clash…
Form
Newcastle: LLWWD
Newcastle have impressed over the second half of the campaign, moving clear of any relegation problems.
Spanish forward Ayoze Perez has been in superb form of late, scoring five goals in his past three appearances, though the 25-year-old is a doubt for the clash having hobbled off with an injury during the 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Record signing Miguel Almiron has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign with a hamstring injury, however there is better news regarding captain Jamaal Lascelles who should return from illness.
Newcastle‘s major concerns as the season draws to a close is the future of manager Rafael Benitez. The Spaniard’s deal expires in the summer and he is yet to sign an extension as he seeks assurances over the club’s ambition.
Liverpool: WWWWW
Just two games remain in the tightest of title races, with Liverpool trailing leaders Manchester City by just a single point.
With Man City not in action until Monday, Jurgen Klopp’s side have the opportunity to add pressure to the leaders by returning to the top on Saturday evening.
Liverpool played well for long periods of Wednesday night’s 3-0 Champions League semi-final defeat to Barcelona, and Klopp must manage his squad with the second leg to come on Tuesday night.
Naby Keita limped off with a groin problem and is a doubt, whilst Roberto Firmino should return having been a surprise omission in midweek.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain made his first appearance in a year during the win over Huddersfield last week, and will be in contention as the season reaches its conclusion.
Predicted Lineups
Newcastle: Dúbravka, Manquillo, Schar, Lascelles, Dummett, Ritchie, Hayden, Shelvey, Diame, Perez, Rondon
Liverpool: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Matip, Van Dijk, Robertson, Fabinho, Henderson, Wijnaldum, Salah, Firmino, Mane
Who is the referee?
Andre Marriner.
How can I watch Newcastle v Liverpool?
UK readers can watch the game on Sky Sports Main Event, while those in the US can watch the game on NBC Sports Live.
What time is kick off?
19:45 GMT.
Odds
Newcastle – 15/2
Draw – 19/5
Liverpool – 4/11
Read: Have Liverpool and Man City opened up an unbridgeable gap at the top of the Premier League?
See also: Five of the Best – Premier League title races ever
