Liverpool’s Premier League opener is edging closer, but one of their first opponents heads into the new campaign surrounded by uncertainty after a difficult week on and off the pitch.
The Reds are due to begin their league season against Newcastle United, with plenty of attention already focused on how both clubs will fare after contrasting summers.
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The Magpies’ preparations suffered another blow when they were heavily beaten 4-1 by Bristol City in a pre-season friendly at Ashton Gate on 30 July, a result that ultimately proved to be Eddie Howe’s final game in charge before stepping down from his role.
Howe later confirmed he felt it was the right time to leave after almost five years at St James’ Park.
While the scoreline itself was concerning, Newcastle were also left counting the cost of another injury issue during the contest.
Bristol City raced into control before extending their advantage after the break, and although Harvey Barnes briefly gave the visitors hope, a late own goal from Sven Botman completed a miserable afternoon for the Premier League side.
The biggest concern, however, came much earlier in the match when Fabian Schär was forced off through injury after just 20 minutes.
Newcastle’s official match report confirmed the experienced defender had to be withdrawn in the early stages before the team went on to concede four goals in a damaging defeat.
Schär’s fitness will now be monitored closely ahead of Newcastle’s meeting with Liverpool, with the centre-back an important figure in their back line.
Any extended absence would leave the Magpies short of experience at the heart of defence during a period of significant upheaval.
With a new manager set to take charge following Howe’s departure, Liverpool will be watching developments closely as they prepare to kick off their Premier League campaign against a Newcastle side already facing plenty of questions before a ball has been kicked competitively.