Liverpool could move three points clear of Aston Villa at the top of the Premier League table when they host Newcastle on New Year’s Day. Jurgen Klopp’s side lead the top-flight at the halfway point of their campaign after winning 12 of their 19 matches. And Express Sport takes a look at the starting team the German could name for the visit of the Magpies.
Goalkeeper – Alisson
Alisson is a key man for Liverpool, with Klopp’s team conceding three goals in the two Premier League matches the Brazilian missed in December. Alisson is one of the best shot-stoppers in the world and will line-up between the sticks once again.
Defence – Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez
Ibrahima Konate could return to partner Virgil van Dijk in the centre of defence after Jarell Quansah was given a run out against Burnley last time out. The Merseyside giants have conceded just two goals in their last five top-flight matches and will be desperate to continue their fine form at the back against Eddie Howe’s men.
Joe Gomez has impressed since being asked to fill in on the left side of defence and could hold down the jersey for another month before Andy Robertson returns to the fold. Trent Alexander-Arnold, meanwhile, will line-up on the right side of defence but will be given the license to roam forward and try to make things happen in front of goal.
Midfield – Gravenberch, Endo, Szoboszlai
Klopp will be hoping World Cup-winning midfielder Alexis Mac Allister is fit to feature against Newcastle, with the 56-year-old telling reporters ahead of the weekend: “Macca, we will see what he can do today (Friday), if he can step into team training or not. The decision is not done yet.” Mac Allister is unlikely to start if deemed fit but could provide his side with a welcomed boost from the bench if he is included in the squad.
Klopp could stick with midfield duo Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo, who both started the Reds’ 2-0 Boxing Day victory over Burnley, while Dominic Szoboszlai could be recalled to the starting team after being introduced as a second half substitute against the Clarets.
