
The Football Faithful
·25 de agosto de 2025
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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·25 de agosto de 2025
Liverpool face their first significant test as defending champions on Monday night as they travel to St James’ Park to take on Newcastle United.
Arne Slot’s side are aiming to build on their opening-day victory and continue their title defence. However, they face a tough challenge against a resilient Newcastle side in what is always a highly charged atmosphere on Tyneside.
Arne Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that he has a major problem at right-back. Summer signing Jeremie Frimpong has been ruled out until after the international break with a hamstring injury sustained against Bournemouth.
The situation is compounded by the fitness of Joe Gomez, who is still being managed carefully after his own long-term absence. Conor Bradley is a chance to return. However, Slot admitted that he may be forced to play Wataru Endō or Dominik Szoboszlai out of position.
There is better news in midfield, however. Ryan Gravenberch is fully available again after suspension and the birth of his child. The Dutchman is a strong candidate to come straight into the starting eleven to add the stabilising influence that was missed in last week’s disjointed performance. The formidable front line, including the outstanding debutant Hugo Ekitike, are all fit and available.
Liverpool predicted XI: Alisson; Bradley, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Wirtz; Salah, Ekitike.
The Premier League fixture takes place at St James’ Park on Monday, 25th August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm BST.
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League in the UK. Coverage begins at 7pm BST.