Mohamed Salah looks to continue his remarkable scoring streak against Newcastle United as Liverpool travels to St. James Park for Monday's Premier League showdown. The Egyptian forward has notched 10 goals and provided 8 assists against the Magpies, contributing to a scoring action in six consecutive matches against them.
The clash comes amid significant tension surrounding Alexander Isak, who remains suspended from Newcastle's squad as he reportedly pushes for a transfer to Liverpool. The Swedish striker, who ironically scored the winner against Liverpool in last season's League Cup final, has become the center of a contentious transfer saga.
"The atmosphere at St. James Park promises to be extremely emotional and tense. Even hostile!"
Without Isak, Newcastle will rely on Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes to lead their attack. The home side may receive a boost with Joe Willock potentially returning to the squad, while new signing Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa could make his debut.
Arne Slot's Liverpool side started their season in explosive fashion, defeating Bournemouth 4-2 at Anfield. New signing Hugo Ekitike made an immediate impact with a goal and assist on his debut, while Salah continued his tradition of scoring in the opening round despite a disappointing performance in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace.
Interestingly, Liverpool has been averaging 2.3 goals per match in the league under Slot's attacking philosophy. However, defensive frailties remain evident – the "Reds" have managed just one clean sheet in their last ten official matches and have conceded at least two goals in 60% of those games.
Liverpool enters the match with an impressive 17-game unbeaten streak against Newcastle in the Premier League. A goal on Monday would also equal their club record of 36 consecutive Premier League matches with a goal.
Do note that Newcastle did defeat Liverpool in their most recent meeting – that March League Cup final where Isak's goal proved decisive. This adds another layer of intrigue to an already heated encounter.
According to bookmakers, Liverpool are slight favorites with odds of 2.08 for an away win, while Newcastle's victory is priced at 3.50 and a draw at 4.20.
The match kicks off at 22:00 at St. James Park with Simon Hooper serving as the main referee. Will Salah extend his remarkable record against the Magpies, or can Newcastle overcome both the absence of Isak and the transfer drama to secure a statement win?
