With Newcastle United and Liverpool set to clash in tonight’s 7.30pm kick-off at St James’ Park, it’s time to look at the early team news coming from both camps ahead of the match.
Eddie Howe issued a “wait and see” message on **Alexander Isak** (hip) when speaking to the media on Tuesday, saying it’s important they manage his pain after he’s failed to train since Saturday’s game.
However, Isak himself told beIN Sports “I am fine” during an interview on Monday, saying he’s “responded well” to the hip issue that forced him off at Palace.
As a result, I think we can expect our top scorer to be in the starting line-up tonight.
**Dan Burn** should be OK, but he is one to keep an eye on after Howe revealed on Tuesday morning that he’s managing an ankle issue that has limited him to very little training time.
Three Toon defenders who will be missing are **Emil Krafth, Sven Botman** and **Jamaal Lascelles**, however.
Liverpool without six
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As for Liverpool, they’ll be without starting centre-back **Ibrahima Konate**, meaning Joe Gomez will partner Virgil van Dijk, with Caoimhin Kelleher set to start in goal again as **Alisson** has been ruled out once again.
Four others set to miss out for the Reds include **Jota, Conor Bradley, Kostas Tsimikas** and **Federico Chiesa.**
Arne Slot has also hinted that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s minutes will be managed after his return from a muscle injury in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Man City. He’s expected to start, but may be taken off shortly after the hour mark.