Hakeem Yusuf
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe set the mood ahead of his team’s Premier League clash with Liverpool. He hinted at careful tactical tweaks and spoke clearly about two key players left out of the starting lineup.Howe met the media before Saturday’s trip to Anfield. He refused to over‑share on detailed strategy, but he did signal a plan focused on performance over emotion. He said Newcastle must play with consistency and discipline to match Liverpool’s strengths in attack and on transitions. He framed the fixture as a chance to uphold the quality they have shown in recent matches rather than trying something risky or unexpected. Howe also spoke on team selection. He left out two established players from his starting eleven and explained his reasoning. Anthony Gordon and another experienced performer started on the bench instead of in attack, with Howe suggesting rotation and tactical balance guided his choices. Players on the bench included Jacob Murphy and midfield options like Lewis Miley. Injury and recovery remain central to Howe’s thinking. He confirmed that captain Bruno Guimarães’s fitness is being assessed ahead of the game after limited training, and that Joelinton is sidelined with a groin issue. Howe noted work on individual recovery plans to ensure they do not rush players back prematurely. Howe also addressed the subplot of facing Liverpool without their former striker Alexander Isak. He acknowledged the club is still adapting to his sudden transfer last summer and the challenge of replacing his influence in the final third. Howe described Isak as an outstanding talent and noted the squad’s ongoing work to find balance without him. The match carries significance on the Premier League table. A positive result at Anfield could boost Newcastle’s position and confidence in a competitive season. Howe kept the focus on execution and fitness, not tricks or mind games, but his team selection and preparation send a clear message about intent.
Mustapha Sheidu
Nafisa