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Liverpool faced missed opportunities in their thrilling pre-Christmas draw with then-leaders Arsenal, and a similar narrative unfolded at Turf Moor. Despite Burnley's attempts to capitalize on disallowed goals, Liverpool secured a triumph with Diogo Jota's 90th-minute goal. While Cody Gakpo and Harvey Elliott had goals ruled out, Liverpool claimed the top spot after Arsenal's surprising home loss to West Ham United.
As Liverpool eyes a continued reign into the New Year, their recent draws at Anfield contrast with their formidable home record this season. Their last New Year's Day defeat dates back to 2005, and the team hopes to maintain this tradition. Meanwhile, Newcastle, currently struggling in ninth place, looks for a fresh start in the New Year after a challenging December, marked by six losses in seven games.
Newcastle's hopes are pinned on a revival after their former marksman, Chris Wood, delivered a stunning hat-trick against them on Boxing Day. Manager Eddie Howe faces a tough month ahead, with fixtures against Aston Villa and Manchester City, as well as an enticing FA Cup third-round tie against Tyne-Wear rivals Sunderland.
Before turning attention to their rivals, Newcastle must address their away form, aiming to break a four-game losing streak on the road. Their recent history against Liverpool includes a late Fabio Carvalho strike that led to a 2-1 loss at Anfield and a defeat by the same scoreline at St James' Park in August, orchestrated by Darwin Nunez's inspired comeback.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
As Liverpool kicks off 2024, they face the challenge of six players sidelined due to various injuries: Kostas Tsimikas (collarbone), Ben Doak (knee), Joel Matip (knee), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago Alcantara (hip), and Andrew Robertson (shoulder) won't be available for Monday's game.Alexis Mac Allister, nearing the end of his recovery from a knee injury, is being assessed by the medical team. Although he might make it into the matchday squad, starting the game appears unlikely.
Wataru Endo, who performed well in the number six role in December, is expected to continue in that position on New Year's Day. However, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konate, and Luis Diaz, who were on the bench at Turf Moor, are likely to be recalled.
Newcastle's injury list has reduced but still includes eight sidelined players, along with Sandro Tonali, serving the remainder of his betting ban until August 2024. Nick Pope (shoulder), Jacob Murphy (shoulder), Harvey Barnes (foot), Jamaal Lascelles (groin), Elliot Anderson (back), Javi Manquillo (groin), Joe Willock (calf), and Matt Targett (thigh) are still unavailable. However, Joelinton, who overcame a hamstring concern, is fit to be on the bench.
Joelinton could challenge Sean Longstaff's place in the XI due to the impact of Lewis Miley. Manager Eddie Howe may also consider swapping Dan Burn for Tino Livramento, although Burn's imposing frame could be advantageous against Virgil van Dijk.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Szoboszlai, Endo, Gravenberch; Salah, Gakpo, Nunez
Newcastle United possible starting lineup:
Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Joelinton, Guimaraes, Miley; Almiron, Isak, Gordon
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 3-1 Newcastle United
While there's a slight concern about Liverpool's ability to convert chances, facing an off-form Newcastle struggling to secure points away from home should ease any worries. As the table-toppers, Liverpool is poised to kick off 2024 in the best possible manner.