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Liverpool’s first two competitive matches this season, or at least a slightly more competitive friendly in the case of the Community shield, have featured some moments of brilliance from the Reds but also some momentary lapses in defense. One of the biggest issues noted by supporters was a lack of Ryan Gravenberch in the side. The Dutch midfielder missed the Community Shield against Crystal Palace due to the birth of his daughter, and then was absent of the side that defeated Bournemouth 4-2 due to a red card suspension from the last match of last season. Gravenberch is ready to feature against Newcastle on Monday, however, and is raring to go.
”I’m feeling good, I’m feeling great. Obviously I couldn’t play the first Premier League game, so I’m happy to be back with the team.”
“Newcastle are really good, we know it will be a really tough game for us. They are really physical, they are good in set-pieces, so we prepare really good for them and we want to show that we give our all against them on Monday.”
Gravenberch, who featured in 37 of the 38 Premier League fixtures last season and an additional 12 more between Champions League and domestic cups, was in the unusual position of watching from the sidelines as the Reds came back to defeat the Cherries in the opening league match of the season. He said it was a fun match to watch, but they have reviewed the film to identify where they need to improve. He also thinks the side will continue to improve naturally as the new players added to the squad settle in.
“It was a really nice game to watch, to be honest. I think we played a really good game up front and then after when Chiesa scored the 3-2 you saw the crowd, the atmosphere was just amazing. Also from the side it was amazing to watch.”
“We analyzed the game against Bournemouth, of course, and also against Crystal Palace. We knew what we had to do better. So obviously we train on it, we train on [being] in possession and everything. Also for the new players, they need time. Obviously they are starting now, so it’s a bit difficult to have a lot of time. But I think they are doing really great. The Premier League, it’s a different competition, also for them it’s a different country. They adapt quite well and I think they will do really great for us.”
Having Gravenberch back to face Newcastle will certainly be a boon for manager Arne Slot. The Dutch midfielder quickly became one of the top holding midfielders after being put in the role at the start of last season, and was recently named to the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for 2024/25. His ability to read the game and quickly react to cut out passing lanes, as well as his ability to handle the press, will be essential for the Reds against a physical Newcastle side.
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