Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
Arne Slot believes Newcastle United pose a "difficult" test for any team in the Premier League when playing at St James’ Park.
While the Magpies have stuttered against Brighton and West Ham United this season, just three home defeats in 2024 paints a fearsome picture. Newcastle have also earned results when Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal travelled to Tyneside earlier in the campaign.
Title favourites Liverpool are next up looking to continue their relentless form, with Slot’s men beating Real Madrid and Manchester City last week. The Reds have opened up a nine-point lead at the top of the Premier League and are arguably Europe’s most in-form side.
Coupled with Newcastle’s underwhelming start and poor record against Liverpool - they have lost the previous six and have not beaten the Reds since 2015 - and Toon fans could rightfully feel ominous ahead of tomorrow’s clash. However, Liverpool boss Slot has insisted St James’ Park is United’s secret weapon when facing the bigger sides.
“I've said many times already, we don't look at it like this,” he replied when asked about his dominant league position. “We know we have a difficult week coming up. I think it's even harder going away to Newcastle. We're not even halfway through the season yet.
Read More
“We have to be, for nine or 10 months, on top of our game. We are now facing Newcastle, which is a team that have won at home against Chelsea, Arsenal and had a draw against Manchester City. They (the players) don’t need me to tell them how difficult the game will be.”
The Dutchman also believes sides naturally raise their game when Liverpool come to town. Slot added: “If Liverpool is 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th, it is always a special game for the teams we face. If Liverpool comes, the stadium is sold out. They want the best game against us.
“It's good for me that it's not only us who play so many games. Normally we play teams who have rested during the week. But now, many teams have many games - because it's England. That six of the next nine are away makes it even more difficult. But we are ready for it.”
Continue Reading