Newcastle United host Liverpool to St James’ Park on Monday night in what promises to be one of the most heated fixtures of the early Premier League season. It is Newcastle’s first home game of the campaign, but the ongoing Alexander Isak saga has only made the atmosphere even more tense.
Isak, once adored on Tyneside, has become a lightning rod for frustration after pushing for a move to Liverpool. Softfootball understands that the striker has refused to train with the first team, claiming “promises were broken and trust is lost”, and manager Eddie Howe has confirmed he will not be involved.
Liverpool’s role in the pursuit has painted them as the villains, and supporters are preparing to make the ground as hostile as possible for the champions. Wor Flags, the famous fan group, admitted the saga has made it harder to unite everyone, but promised a huge pre-match display to back the players who are still committed.
However, the Reds appear undisturbed, with Liverpool’s official X handle admin even posting a video of the match venue, dispelling any sense of fear.
Watch the video below:
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is well aware of what awaits. He admitted the atmosphere could be “even more intense than usual” at St James’ Park, though he insisted his side must focus on the pitch.
Behind the scenes, Liverpool are preparing a fresh offer for Isak that could even involve Federico Chiesa moving the other way, though talks are unlikely to progress until after the match.
Liverpool posts the team’s starting lineup on their official X account:
On the footballing side, Newcastle come into the clash without a goal in three league games, their worst drought since 2020 if it extends further.
Anthony Elanga could be key to changing that, with his recent goalscoring form all coming before half-time. For Liverpool, new signing Hugo Ekitiké has made an instant impact, scoring the opener in both of his first two games.
Newcastle United posts the team’s starting lineup on their official X account:
The recent history between the clubs underlines the challenge for Newcastle. While they beat Liverpool in last season’s Carabao Cup final, they have not managed a Premier League win against them in 17 attempts. The Reds also opened their title defence with a nervy 4-2 win over Bournemouth, but away form was an issue last season and remains a concern.
Joe Willock is doubtful for Newcastle, while Liverpool are without Jeremie Frimpong and could also miss Conor Bradley. With tensions high and both sides desperate to make a statement, all signs point to a dramatic night under the lights at St James’ Park.
