Newcastle United v Liverpool: Match Preview, Team News, Prediction

The waiting is almost over as Newcastle United prepare to welcome Liverpool to St James’ Park on Sunday for a huge opening game of the new Premier League season.

It will be the beginning of a new era for both clubs, with Matthias Jaissle taking charge of his first competitive game as Newcastle boss, while former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola begins life in the Liverpool dugout.

However, that's where the similarity ends.

Iraola will be under immediate pressure to start the season well and pilot Liverpool to at least a top four finish and CL qualification.

In contrast, Jaissle has the understanding from the club and us fans that he has a huge job on his hands after the upheaval and dismantling of the senior squad.

A mid table finish, whilst we would all of course like more, would be acceptable as long as we see progress being made that gives us more expectations for next season.

Could Jaissle Pull Off A Miracle?

Newcastle’s league record against Liverpool makes grim reading.

The Toon haven’t beaten the Reds in the Premier League since a 2-0 victory at St James’ Park in December 2015 under Steve McClaren.

With Jo and Willock out, Burn and Miley hardly match fit, and only youngsters added to the squad - Liverpool are the bookies favourites to win at a canter.

But, can Jaissle pull off a miracle and get our first league win in eleven years?

Liverpool Can Be Got At

Despite the quality in Liverpool’s squad, their pre-season has shown some vulnerabilities.

Iraola’s side suffered defeats against Leeds and Monaco even after taking a two goal lead in both games.

Iraola put that down to his squad's fitness levels not being high enough to play at a tempo for 90 minutes - an easy excuse when the truth may be that Liverpool's defence is as potentially shaky as it was last season.

That should encourage Newcastle.

So, a fast start will be vital.

If the Lads can press Liverpool, win the early battles, grab an early goal, and get St James’ Park rocking, who knows?

That for sure will be Jaissle's plan.

Sitting back against Liverpool isn't an option.

Isak Returns

He will get a torrid reception but I think that is more likely to drive him on.

After an injury ravaged first season and Ekitike's form, Isak has a lot to prove to Liverpool and their fans that he was worth the £125M paid.

Despite what we think of him now, we know that he won games for us with a flash of brilliance and he can do exactly the same in a red shirt.

If one player can change the game tomorrow, it's Isak.

It's hard to plan against his brilliance, we just have to hope he saves it for another day.

A Special & Emotional Occasion

Some things make you wonder whether coincidence or something altogether is at play.

Newcastle opening their season against Liverpool shortly after the passing of Kevin Keegan, a legend at both clubs, is one of those things.

Coincidence or the work of the Gods, the fact that both teams start a new era under new managers as we pay our respects and honour the end of the Messiah's era, will be a very special and emotional occasion.

I am not afraid to admit I shed tears at his memorial outside SJP, and I am certain many .will find it hard not to hold their emotions back tomorrow afternoon.

Legend is a word far too easily given these days, but KK deserves that honour in spades.

The joy and pride he gave Newcastle as a player and manager goes way beyond description.

Raw and heartfelt emotions will flood down from the stands and all around SJP tomorrow. It will be one of those days we will never forget.

Can We Do It?

I( have a daft feeling we can - but then again those feelings almost always turn out to be daft.

So, my first fiver bet of the season is going on a 2-2 draw.

If Liverpool do win, I hope it's only by the odd goal and Isak doesn't score.

HWTL.

RIP KK.

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