Fourth Liverpool player ruled of Newcastle United clash - plus doubt over £58m pair

The Reds have been without their No.1 shotstopper since the 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on October. Republic of Ireland international Caoimhin Kelleher has impressed in the Brazilian’s absence and will start at St James’ Park.

"I have been clear a few weeks ago about what my position is about our goalkeepers," said Arne Slot. “But we are just waiting for the moment that Alisson is completely fit because Caoimh is doing too well to put Alisson in goal if he is only on 50%. That would not be good for Alisson and not be good for the team.

“He’s getting there. It might take a few more extra days but he’s getting closer and closer and like I’ve always said the end phase of rehab is always the period where you feel like, ‘okay, is he really there or does he need a few extra days?’.

“But he will be in goal before the end of December if things continue like they are.”

Slot revealed after Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City on Sunday that he remains without defenders Ibrahima Konate, Conor Bradley and Kostas Tsimikas.

Konate and Bradley both picked up injuries in the Champions League victory over Real Madrid while Tsimikas has been sidelined since last month.

“They will both be out for a few weeks,” said Slot. “I have said many times before always difficult to judge how many weeks exactly. The end stage of an injury process can differ but they will not be in the team this week, for sure.”

Meanwhile, Diogo Jota and Federico Chiesa are doubts. The pair haven’t played October and September, respectively.

Liverpool, the current Premier League leaders, are unbeaten in 15 matches against Newcastle, winning all six of their previous meetings.