Newcastle United are aiming for their first win of the new season as they welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park.
The match between the sides has come at an unfortunate time for the Premier League duo, as news of Alexander Isak’s potential move to Liverpool has been the hot topic of the summer.
Newcastle failed to capitalise on their one-man advantage in the 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on the opening day after Ezri Konsa’s sending off for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Ezri Konsa fouls Anthony Gordon during a game between Aston Villa vs Newcastle United
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
However, the supporters are certainly up for what promises to be a widely watched evening of football, and here is how the Magpies could line up at St James’ Park.
Predicted Newcastle United XI vs Liverpool
Eddie Howe has been active in the transfer market despite the distractions at St James’ Park in recent weeks – the Newcastle matchday squad is expected to feature some new additions.
Goalkeeper: Although Aaron Ramsdale arrived from Southampton to compete with Nick Pope for a starting berth, the latter is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup on Monday.
Defence: Kieran Trippier should continue to keep Lewis Hall out of the first eleven at St James’ Park, with the talented Tino Livramento lining up on the opposite side of the defence.
Sven Botman remains a doubt for being named in the matchday squad, and £34 million signing Malick Thiaw is expected to be named among the substitutes following his arrival from AC Milan. Therefore, Fabian Schar should line up alongside Dan Burn, who scored against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final last season, once again.
Midfield: The midfield options for Newcastle should surely pick themselves at St James’ Park. Sandro Tonali is one of the best in his position and will be expected to line up at the heart of the midfield three.
Joe Willock’s return will give Howe additional options off the bench, with captain Bruno Guimaraes likely to retain his place alongside Joelinton to give the Magpies their strongest trio in midfield.
Forwards: Anthony Elanga showed promise against Villa on the opening day, and although Newcastle supporters have concerns regarding the forward, the £55 million man will be expected to occupy the right flank on Monday.
Jacob Ramsey signed for Newcastle from Aston Villa in a deal worth a total of £43 million, and Howe admitted the forward has been “impressive” in his pre-match press conference – he is expected to replace Harvey Barnes in the starting line-up.
Lastly, Anthony Gordon should lead the line for the Magpies in the absence of Isak, as he did on the opening day.
Eddie Howe is expecting an ‘electric’ atmosphere at St James’ Park
Indeed, the ongoing Isak saga has attracted a lot of attention towards the match on Monday evening.
However, Howe is focusing on the supporters arriving at St James’ Park for the first home fixture of the 2025/26 campaign and is expecting a passionate response for his side.
“The first home game is always going to be electric. Under the lights, evening games are always really special for us. I have no doubt this will be a really passionate display from the home support.
“We need to use that, but not be reckless with it. We’ve got to concentrate and deliver our game plan, but using the energy from the crowd will be vital for us.”