Newcastle United face a daunting challenge on Wednesday evening as the Magpies are set to host Premier League leaders Liverpool at St James’ Park.
Eddie Howe’s side, still searching for consistency, comes into the match off the back of a frustrating 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace, where a late equalizer denied them a crucial win deep into injury time.
Liverpool, in contrast, are on a seven-game winning streak across all competitions and hold an 11-point lead over second-place Manchester City. Yes, you read that right.
The Reds’ 2-0 win against the defending champions on Sunday solidified their dominance atop the best league in the world, with Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah finding the net in another sublime display that looks light years ahead of anybody else roaming EPL pitches these days.
Newcastle’s concerns are compounded by injuries, with Alexander Isak doubtful after picking up a hip issue against Palace and Callum Wilson available but looking 50 years old rather than a productive dude.
Liverpool also have their share of injuries, including Ibrahima Konaté, Kostas Tsimikas, and Alisson Becker, but their depth has been sufficient to maintain their form and even their second XI could make it hard for NUFC to earn a draw.
The Magpies haven’t beaten Liverpool in 15 attempts, with their last victory dating back to December 2015. Given Liverpool’s form and Newcastle’s struggles at home, Howe’s side will need a near-perfect performance to end their winless run against the league leaders.
With this being Newcastle, however, never rule that out if only because of the maddening randomness surrounding this club.
Here are some of Howe’s Wisdom Nuggets, courtesy of [_**NUFC.co.uk**_](http://NUFC.co.uk)
_**On Isak and Dan Burn’s availability...**_
“Alex took a knock to his hip. We haven’t seen him in training yet, but we don’t think it’s a long-term injury.
“Dan got through the game well. When he got suspended, we used that as an opportunity to look after his ankle and get himself fit. He was outstanding against Crystal Palace, and he came through the game okay.”
_**On in-form Liverpool...**_
“Liverpool are very good, very strong - what a week they have had against Real Madrid and Manchester City. Players are playing well - we are going to need to put in a good defensive performance and pose them questions going forward as well.”
_**On the eagerly-anticipated visit of the Reds...**_
“There is an excitement about the game, and to attack a game like this will be a brilliant thing.
“We have to bring our strengths, and our strengths are unique to us.”
_**On the Emirates FA Cup third-round draw, which pitted the Magpies against League Two outfit Bromley at St. James’ Park...**_
“It was great to see us get a home draw. It will be a great occasion, but we will look forward to that when that comes around.”
_**On the importance of creating the right environment for his side...**_
“It is about giving players the confidence, and making an environment so they can be comfortable and free.”
_**Howay!**_
* **Date**: Wednesday, Dec. 4th
* **Kick-off**: 19:30 BST / 14:30 EST
* **Location**: St James’ Park, Newcastle (England)
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