Newcastle predicted XI v Liverpool – Two changes after Sky Sports update
Newcastle could welcome back two stars for the trip to Liverpool on Wednesday.
The Magpies will be hoping to dent Arne Slot’s side in their procession to the Premier League title and increase their chances of a top fourth berth in the Anfield encounter (26 February).
They will also hope to lay down a marker for the Carabao Cup final on 16 March where the two sides meet in pursuit of the first trophy of the season.
Newcastle get huge injury boost v Liverpool
A report from Sky Sports Keith Downie revealed that the Geordies could welcome back Joelinton and Sven Botman for the clash on Wednesday.
🚨 Sven Botman “very close” and Joelinton “close” to being involved at Liverpool tomorrow night.
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) February 25, 2025
🚨 Sandro Tonali is fine after recovering from a hamstring concern and should play at Anfield.
🇧🇷 🇳🇱 🇮🇹 #NUFC pic.twitter.com/0q0ALNorMw
That would be a major boost for Eddie Howe’s side as both are key starters when fit and it may cause the Reds a problem.
Nick Pope is expected to keep his place between the sticks despite conceding three goals in the 4-3 win over Nottingham Forest.
Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall are predicted to retain their starting berths of the flanks in defence with the latter notching an assist and creating three chances against Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. [Fotmob]
In the heart of defence, Botman might return next to Dan Burn, who completed the most passes in the clash at St James’ Park with 62 for an 87 per cent completion rate.
Joelinton set to return for Liverpool clash
Bruno Guimaraes is expected to reprise his role in the base of midfield, the Brazilian made six recoveries and made three interceptions against Forest.
Lewis Miley is predicted to retain his starting spot after scoring and creating a chance in the contest between the sides fighting for the top four.
With Joelinton potentially available, Howe might choose to throw him straight back into action given the physicality and tenacity that he brings since being converted into a midfielder.
| Stats | Joelinton (PL) |
| Goals | 4 (93rd percentile) |
| Touches in opp. box (per 90) | 3.32 (89th percentile) |
| Ground duels won (per 90) | 5.99 (64th percentile) |
| Aerial duels won (per 90) | 1.97 (90th percentile) |
Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon are predicted to keep their places on the wings and the latter could cause Trent Alexander-Arnold problems after taking five touches in the opposition box in the clash.
Finally, Liverpool-linked Alexander Isak is expected to lead the line for the Magpies after notching two goals and taking eight touches in the Forest box.
The Reds need Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk on top form to deal with the threat that Gordon and Isak bring.
If they can manage to stop them, they could cement their status as champions-elect going into the final stages of the campaign.