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Gary Lineker jokingly claimed he is looking to “upset Alan Shearer” with his pre-match prediction for Newcastle United vs. Liverpool on Monday night.
The Reds travel to St. James Park looking to build on last week’s 4-2 win over Bournemouth, while Newcastle drew 0-0 in a drab match against Aston Villa. But the visit of Liverpool should provide more excitement, especially with the final match of the second round of Premier League fixtures set against the ongoing saga surrounding Alexander Isak.
The Sweden forward continues to train alone as he angles for a move to Liverpool, with Eddie Howe confirming the 25-year-old won’t be involved against the Premier League champions on Monday. It means Anthony Gordon is expected to lead the line once again as a central striker.
Despite that, Lineker is hoping for goals in the north-east, and the former Match of the Day presenter predicted Liverpool will just shave a five-goal cracker.
“Do I upset Alan Shearer? Or do I not upset Alan Shearer?” Lineker told the Premier League’s website as he gave his verdict on all 10 weekend matches.
“I think I’m going to upset him. All the turmoil around the club with Isak is going to have a knock-on effect, however good they did last season. I think there will be goals, 3-2 Liverpool.”
Given the last five meetings between the clubs have resulted in 20 goals - included a 3-3 draw when they last faced off at St James Park - predicting goals should be a safe bet.
The Reds will hope to carry the same offensive threat as was shown last week against Bournemouth, but add more defensive resolve.
Speaking ahead of the game, Arne Slot claimed the return of Ryan Gravenberch should strengthen Liverpool’s porous core, and said he expects to face a hostile atmosphere on the banks of the Tyne.
“If you go to Newcastle, you know what to expect,” said the Dutchman in Thursday’s press conference. “We've played them three times last season, and twice their intensity levels were above ours.
"They have players for this, but they also have players that are so comfortable on the ball, so one of the best teams in the league. And one of the most difficult away games that you can have in the season, especially, as you say it here, 'Under the lights’."
Howe also said he is expecting an "electric” atmosphere in Newcastle’s first home game of the season.
“I have no doubt this will be a really passionate display from the home support. We need to use that - but not be reckless with it,” he said.
“We've got to concentrate and deliver our game plan, but using the energy from the crowd will be vital for us.”
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