Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool are set to host Newcastle United as both sides aim to get their top-four campaigns back on track. The Reds are yet to win a top-flight game in 2026, while the Magpies were without key midfielder Bruno Guimaraes during last weekend’s 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa.
Liverpool, who were famed for last-minute winners early in the 2025-26 season, have seen the opposite happen recently. Their 3-2 loss to Bournemouth saw them fight back from 2-0 down only to concede Amine Adli’s injury-time winner, marking the third Premier League match this season in which Liverpool have let a 90+ minute lead slip, more than any previous campaign.
The defeat ended Liverpool’s 13-game unbeaten run and extended their winless league streak to five matches, dropping them to sixth in the table.
Not since 1954 have the Reds failed to win their first six league games of a calendar year. After facing Newcastle, Liverpool will have a week to prepare for Manchester City on February 8.
City, meanwhile, face their own injury concerns. Pep Lijnders confirmed that winger Jeremy Doku, who impressed against Galatasaray by setting up Erling Haaland’s opener before being forced off in the first half, will be sidelined for over two weeks. Doku will also miss Sunday’s clash at Tottenham on Sunday.
“I have to say first of all to Jeremy, I have to make a big compliment how he played,” the City assistant said. “Because a top team is defined by individual quality of our front players and how he was between the lines to attack and first assist to Erling was unbelievable.
“Sorry he went out and its similar to last injury. Only that time it was lateral, this one is on the centre. it was 18 days. I think this time it will be a little bit shorter as he’s a robust player.”
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