“Yesterday, he looked absolutely ready,” Jurgen Klopp told reporters of star Virgil van Dijk’s return when asked about the Dutchman’s preparation for his first start since a 3-1 loss to Brentford.
The availability of the former Southampton star would certainly offer a huge confidence boost on top of the Reds’ Merseyside derby victory ahead of a challenging outing at St James’ Park against Newcastle’s top four residents.
The likes of Diogo Jota and Bobby Firmino will likely be gradually reintroduced after their appearances on the bench against Everton, although that will suit the manager more, while his current front three shows more and more signs of clicking.
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Ahead of Alisson Becker in goal, we backed the German tactician to select a centre-half duo of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
Klopp is likely to keep his most recent selection in midfield, Stefan Bajcetic, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, after the club’s veteran midfielders showed signs of returning to their best form.
Above, Darwin Nunez should remain on the left flank with Cody Gakpo in the center and Mo Salah on the opposite flank.
EOTK Predicted XI: Alisson, Robertson, Van Dijk, Gomez, Alexander-Arnold, Bajcetic, Fabinho, Henderson, Nunez, Gakpo, Salah
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