· December 3 2024, 13:30
**Eddie Howe must find a way to stop the rot and get Newcastle United back firing on all cylinders, but the game against Liverpool couldn't have come at a worse time.**
Newcastle could really have done with an easier game to try and get their mojo back, but instead must face the Premier League leaders as they try and get back to winning ways - or at least taking a bloody shot when the opportunity presents itself ways.
Maybe the increase in the level of competition could be the spur Newcastle need, who knows?
Eddie Howe seems reluctant to change the shape of his side, so we're predicting a change in personnel. Usually, these team predictions are a democratic process, but as I got the last team selection spot on but was convinced by the lads in the office to change it around, I'm overruling everyone this time - although I've probably picked the wrong time to grow a spine. We shall see.
MY predicted starting lineup to take on Liverpool
### Goalkeeper
**Nick Pope -** This one wasn't even up for debate.
### **Defenders**
**Kieran Trippier** - Ooh controversial! I just feel this is one of those games where Eddie Howe might opt for experience and will give the old man the nod. Nothing against Tino Livramento in any way.
**Fabian Schar** - We literally have nobody else.
**Dan Burn** - The saviour on Saturday, sorely missed against West Ham. Has to be in the side.
**Lewis Hall** - Okay, I said Howe may turn to experience but let's not get too silly, he's not going to start Matt Targett is he? IS HE?
### Midfielders
**Sean Longstaff** - The midfield was a disaster on Saturday so we are expecting at least one change and we think Longstaff in for Joe Willock will be the one.
**Bruno Guimaraes** - Still likely to start but he could be forced out of the number six role by Sandro Tonali and Bruno could start in the left of centre.
**Sandro Tonali** - Could be swapped with Bruno but he was one of our best players on Saturday so has to start on Wednesday.
### Forwards
**Anthony Gordon** - Eddie Howe seems to be going with Gordon on the right recently and we reckon he'll do the same again here with no better options available.
**Alexander Isak** - Isak says he's fit and that's good enough for us.
**Joelinton** - Absolutely woeful on Saturday but he's still Joelinton and you don't drop Joelinton! Although I was 50/50 with him and Harvey Barnes.
I reckon Barnes will be kept as a super-sub which is what he's good at. It's too soon to start Callum Wilson still, so Isak declaring himself fit will likely mean he's starting.
I've tried to think like Eddie Howe for this one and it's not so much the team I'd put out as more what I think Howe will do.