Liverpool travel to Newcastle on Monday night knowing they face one of the most challenging fixtures of their early season calendar. The champions edged past Bournemouth on the opening day but showed defensive frailties that will concern Arne Slot as his side look to put in a more convincing display at St James’ Park.

The backdrop to this game has been dominated by the Alexander Isak transfer saga. The Swedish striker is pushing for a move to Anfield and is currently training away from Newcastle’s squad, ruling him out of this encounter. While his absence removes a major threat, the Magpies remain a dangerous opponent, especially at home under the floodlights.

Injury Problems on the Right

Slot’s biggest concern comes in defence. Jeremie Frimpong has been ruled out until after the international break with a hamstring injury. Conor Bradley, still building fitness after his own layoff, only returned to training this week and remains a doubt. Joe Gomez is also in question, having played just 18 minutes against Bournemouth and still struggling to reach full match sharpness after a long absence.

This leaves Liverpool without a natural, fully fit right-back. As a result, Slot could be forced into a bold tactical tweak. Hungarian midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has already been tested in the role during pre-season and is being considered again. His energy, technical quality and ability to progress the ball might make him a short-term solution in a game where possession and control will be vital.

Gravenberch Returns to Strengthen Midfield

The good news for Slot is the return of Ryan Gravenberch, who missed the opener through suspension. The Dutchman’s presence alongside Alexis Mac Allister should bring more stability to midfield, which looked vulnerable to counter-attacks against Bournemouth. Florian Wirtz, meanwhile, is expected to start in an advanced role, pulling the strings behind the front three.

Attack: Familiar Names, New Pressure

Up front, Liverpool should remain unchanged. Mohamed Salah, chasing yet another Premier League record, will start on the right, while Hugo Ekitike leads the line. The Frenchman impressed on his debut and will be keen to show his quality in a high-profile away clash. Cody Gakpo is likely to retain his spot on the left, although Slot will want more consistency from his forward line after a patchy attacking display last week.

Newcastle’s Perspective

Eddie Howe’s side will enter this game with a near-clean bill of health. Joe Willock is fit again, and new signings Jacob Ramsey and Malick Thiaw are pushing for debuts. Without Isak, Anthony Gordon is expected to play through the middle, supported by a midfield trio that includes Sandro Tonali, Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes.

The Key Battle

The match could hinge on Liverpool’s ability to cope down the right flank. If Szoboszlai starts at right-back, he will be directly tested by Harvey Barnes and Gordon drifting into wide areas. Slot’s gamble — whether to trust Bradley or Gomez despite their lack of sharpness, or to experiment with Szoboszlai — may define the night.

Predicted XI

Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Szoboszlai (or Bradley), Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike
Doubts: Gomez, Bradley
Out: Frimpong