Newcastle United are without wantaway striker Alexander Isak and tonight face the team he wants to join.
Newcastle vs Liverpool always brings a little spice, but the actions of a certain Swede have increased that tenfold.
Isak is refusing to play for the Magpies in an attempt to force through a move to the Premier League champions and as a result has left Eddie Howe without an experienced striker.
From the Reds’ £ 110 million rejected bid, to social media exchanges between both sets of supporters and official statements from Isak and Newcastle, it’s all added to the occasion this evening, which is threatening to reach boiling point.
“Frst home game I think it's always going to be electric, under lights, evening game. Those games are always really special for us. I love experiencing those days, those nights with the energy that the crowd bring us. I've got no doubt this will be a really passionate display from the home support,” Eddie Howe said.
“We need to harness that, use it, but not be reckless with it. You know, we've got to concentrate on the game. We've got to deliver our game plan. We've got to concentrate on what we need to do and not get too emotional, but certainly use the energy from the crowd that's going to be vital for us.”
How will Newcastle United continue to line-up without Isak? Here’s the starting XI we’re expecting to see:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope is expected to start the campaign but faces strong competition from Aaron Ramsdale. | Getty Images
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Monaco are reportedly showing interest in Trippier but Newcastle have little intention of letting the 34-year-old leave. | Getty Images
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Newcastle have strengthened at centre-back with the arrival of Malick Thiaw, but it’s early days for the former AC Milan man. | Getty Images
4. CB: Dan Burn
Last season was stuff of dreams for the Blyth-born defender. He’ll do well to top it! | Getty Images