Liverpool Starting XI vs Newcastle Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup for Carabao Cup Final | OneFootball

Key Selection Decisions for Arne Slot as Liverpool Face Newcastle Utd

Liverpool head into the League Cup Final against Newcastle United with a significant selection headache, particularly at right-back. With Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined after sustaining an injury against Paris Saint-Germain, and both Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez also unavailable, Arne Slot must decide who will fill the void.

Jarell Quansah and Wataru Endo appear the most natural options, yet Slot has hinted at alternative solutions, including an unexpected role for Curtis Jones or even a left-footed defender deputising on the right.

“I think maybe even Curtis can play there,” Slot admitted. “And you can also play as a left-footed defender on the right side, which is what Newcastle do at the moment but on the opposite [side].”

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Defensive Boost as Konaté Returns

A major boost for Liverpool comes in the form of Ibrahima Konaté’s availability. The French centre-back had to be withdrawn against PSG but has now been passed fit, ensuring he will partner Virgil van Dijk in the heart of the defence. This stability at centre-back may prove crucial in Liverpool’s defensive setup as they face an in-form Newcastle side.

At left-back, Andrew Robertson is set to start, adding experience and leadership to the backline. However, the right-back situation remains fluid, and Slot’s final decision could shape the way Liverpool approach the match both defensively and in attack.

Goalkeeper and Attacking Dilemmas for Slot

Another area of contention is in goal, with Slot needing to decide between first-choice Alisson Becker and Caoimhin Kelleher, who has been Liverpool’s go-to option in domestic cup competitions. Kelleher’s heroics in previous finals, particularly in penalty shootouts, make him a strong contender, though Alisson’s experience on the big stage might see him get the nod.

Further forward, Liverpool’s attack also presents selection dilemmas. Cody Gakpo returned as a late substitute in extra time against PSG, though he appeared short of full fitness. Diogo Jota, who started that match, is in contention to retain his place, while Darwin Núñez offers an alternative as the central striker.

Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Luis Díaz are all expected to start, providing Liverpool with their usual attacking threat, but Slot will need to ensure his front line is operating at full intensity if they are to break down Newcastle’s resolute defence.

Alexander-Arnold’s Recovery Timeline Remains Unclear

Liverpool are still assessing the extent of Alexander-Arnold’s injury, with no definitive return date set. Slot provided an update, saying: “So, Trent is indeed not available. He will not be there at the final. But he is still to be assessed for how long it’s going to take but we do expect him back in the end of the season.”

The absence of Alexander-Arnold, coupled with other defensive injuries, places further emphasis on Slot’s tactical setup and squad depth as Liverpool aim to secure their first piece of silverware under his management.

Liverpool Predicted XI vs Newcastle Utd

Goalkeeper: Alisson/Kelleher Defence: Quansah, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson Midfield: Mac Allister, Gravenberch Attack: Salah, Szoboszlai, Díaz, Jota

Match Details

Time & Date: 4:30 PM GMT, Sunday 16 March 2025 Venue: Wembley Stadium, London TV Channel & Live Stream: Sky Sports, ITV, STV