The Premier League spotlight returns to St James’ Park on Monday, August 25 as Newcastle United host Liverpool in their first home test of the season.
The Magpies earned a goalless draw in their opener at Aston Villa, while the champions began life under pressure with a dramatic win over Bournemouth at Anfield.
Eddie Howe is aiming to steady his side while the situation around Alexander Isak remains unresolved and the striker’s absence has created plenty of noise off the pitch, with links to Liverpool dominating headlines and overshadowing preparations.
On the positive side, Newcastle have completed the signing of Jacob Ramsey. The deal for the Aston Villa midfielder was finalized for an initial £39 million ($52m). They have also avoided fresh injury setbacks and key figures like Bruno Guimaraes are available, which will give some hope to the Magpies manager.
On the other hand, the Reds travel north on the back of a strong attacking display in their first league outing, but defensive issues have already emerged.
Injury problems at right-back could force Arne Slot into some creativity in his lineup choices, although he can at least welcome back Ryan Gravenberch back from suspension, adding more energy to the midfield.
MORE: Alexander Isak next club: Where Newcastle United striker could go if Liverpool transfer falls through
Newcastle United vs. Liverpool lineups: Predicted starting XI, team news, injury latest
Newcastle were handed a timely lift ahead of Monday’s clash after Joe Willock returned to full training.
The midfielder had been missing since suffering a calf problem during preseason against a K-League XI, but photographs from the club’s training sessions this week confirmed he has rejoined the group.
While he is not expected to start, Willock could make the bench, which would be a valuable boost for Howe as he plans for what promises to be one of the season’s most demanding fixtures.
The bigger talking point remains the future of Isak. The striker set social media alight on Tuesday with a post explaining his absence from the PFA awards, while also revealing his frustration with the club. That effectively ruled him out of selection for this match, especially since he had already been omitted from the draw at Aston Villa.
Elsewhere, there are no fresh injuries to report, and Newcastle should line up with their usual defensive pairing of Fabian Schar and Dan Burn, while Malick Thiaw could have to wait for the place in starting XI. New signing Jacob Ramsey should be in the squad.
Newcastle United predicted starting XI (4-3-3, right to left): Pope (GK) — Trippier, Schar, Burn, Livramento — Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton — Elanga, Gordon, Barnes
Injured: None
Suspended: None
Unavailable: Isak
Liverpool head to St James’ Park with concerns at right-back after Jeremie Frimpong came off against Bournemouth with hamstring discomfort. He is expected to be out until after the September international break.
With Conor Bradley also unavailable after missing the last few weeks through injury, Joe Gomez is the most likely option to slot in at right-back, although Slot admitted it would be a risk to play him for 90 minutes.
Elsewhere, the Reds manager will be relieved to welcome Gravenberch back into his squad after serving a one-match suspension. The midfielder, who also welcomed a first child with Cindy Peroti, will likely partner Dominik Szoboszlai in the middle. Alexis Mac Allister may need more time to reach peak fitness after a limited preseason.
Milos Kerkez is expected to retain place at left-back over Andy Robertson despite a mixed outing against Bournemouth.
Liverpool predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1, right to left): Alisson (GK) — Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez — Szoboszlai, Gravenberch — Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo — Ekitike
Injured: Bradley (other), Frimpong (hamstring), Gomez
Suspended: None
Newcastle United vs. Liverpool match details
- Date: Monday, August 25, 2025
- Kickoff time: 8 p.m. local / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
- Location: St James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne (England)
- Competition: Premier League
- Referee: Simon Hooper
- VAR: John Brooks
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