The Premier League delivers another blockbuster as Liverpool lock horns with Newcastle United at St James’ Park tonight (Monday, August 25, 2025). The clash promises fireworks, with Eddie Howe vowing an “electric” atmosphere under the lights as the home crowd aims to rattle Arne Slot’s side.

⚡ Summer Drama Adds Fuel to the Fire

This fixture carries extra spice following a transfer saga that dominated the summer. Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has been pushing for a move to Anfield, but with negotiations still unresolved, the Swede won’t feature. His absence leaves Howe without his most lethal weapon up front.

📰 Team News: Injuries & Boosts

Newcastle: No Isak, but there’s a boost as Joe Willock returns to training, and Jacob Ramsey is back in contention. Expect Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes to shoulder the attacking responsibility.

Liverpool: Defensive concerns mount. Jeremie Frimpong is sidelined with a hamstring problem until after the international break, while Conor Bradley is only just returning to full training. Joe Gomez’s sharpness remains a question after limited action last week.


The Reds do, however, welcome back Ryan Gravenberch from suspension, joining Alexis Mac Allister in midfield. Fresh arrivals Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Frimpong all made appearances in the 4–2 win over Bournemouth, with Ekitike getting on the scoresheet.

📊 Head-to-Head Record

History leans heavily Liverpool’s way:

190 total meetings → Liverpool 94 wins, Newcastle 51 wins, 45 draws.

The Reds are unbeaten in their last 17 league games against the Magpies.

But Newcastle will cling to their 2–1 triumph in the 2025 EFL Cup Final, proving they can hurt the champions when it matters most.


🤔 Slot’s Tactical Puzzle

The biggest dilemma for Arne Slot? Right-back.
With Frimpong out, Bradley half-fit, and Gomez uncertain, the manager could be forced to get creative. Reports suggest Dominik Szoboszlai may drop into the role — a move tested during pre-season. Alternatively, Wataru Endo could be deployed there.

Should Szoboszlai shift to defence, expect Gravenberch and Mac Allister to anchor midfield, allowing Florian Wirtz the freedom to push higher up. The attacking trio is likely unchanged: Salah, Gakpo, and Ekitike.

⚠ Newcastle’s Threats

Don’t rule the Magpies out. Even without Isak, Howe’s men have weapons. Anthony Gordon could operate as a false nine, while Harvey Barnes and Anthony Elanga aim to exploit gaps in Liverpool’s backline. With Bruno Guimaraes orchestrating play from midfield, Newcastle will fancy their chances of unsettling the champions.