Wayne Rooney has used one word to describe Newcastle United vs Liverpool on Monday night – hostile.
St James’ Park is set to host its first Premier League game of the season on Monday night when Newcastle face Liverpool.
It is one of the Premier League’s most famous fixtures, made all the more tantalising due to it being a night game and the Alexander Isak situation.
Isak will not play for Newcastle, but that will not concern the Toon Army. They are preparing to create a ferocious atmosphere, as they aim to propel Eddie Howe’s side to victory.
While Isak is not going to be at St James’ Park, Wayne Rooney believes he is the reason the crowd will be so intense.
Alexander Isak celebrates in front of the Newcastle United fans after scoring against Liverpool at Wembley.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Wayne Rooney expects ‘hostile’ Newcastle United vs Liverpool game
Speaking on the Wayne Rooney Show for the BBC Sport YouTube channel, the former Manchester United and England striker previewed Newcastle United vs Liverpool.
“It’s a big game,” he said.
“Historically throughout the Premier League years, there’s been some great games between the two teams. Obviously remember the Kevin Keegan, you know, hanging over the advertising board. So there’s been historically some great games.
“Obviously with everything going on with Isak at the minute, I think it’s going to be a hostile atmosphere for sure.”
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Rooney knows what it is like to play at St James’ Park. He did plenty of times for Manchester United and Everton.
He has been involved in some incredible atmospheres, and knows that the Toon Army can drown out any away support on their day.
“You can’t hear the away fans,” he added.
“If Newcastle fans are on it that day, you can’t hear the away fans.
I think it’s going to be a hostile atmosphere for sure. Liverpool fans will obviously go and play their part as well.
“With everything that’s going on over the summer really with Isak, I think Newcastle fans will be right… it’s a Monday night as well, bank holiday. Monday night, so I’m sure the Newcastle fans will enjoy the day as well.”
Liverpool are always incredibly well supported away from home, but the Newcastle United fans need to ensure it is one of those nights where all you can hear are Geordie voices.
It feels like a perfect storm for the Magpies. While the Isak situation is hugely disappointing, the fact it has happened and Liverpool are up first at home has set Newcastle United up for what could be a special night.
On top of that, Eddie Howe can take heart from the fact his team played so well against Aston Villa. They did not win on the opening weekend of the Premier League season, but they should have.
If Newcastle can play just as well against Liverpool with the backing of a hostile St James’ Park then they could grab their first win of the season. However, even with the atmosphere, that will be difficult given Liverpool’s quality.