Ahead of the Newcastle-Liverpool game, former Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given chose his combined XI from both teams. Given chose just two Liverpool players, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, for his XI, despite Liverpool’s poor form this season.
Speaking to LeoVegas, (via Liverpool Echo). Given expressed surprise at Liverpool’s decline since last season, when they were quadruple contenders and considered one of the greatest teams ever.
He chose Nick Pope as goalkeeper due to his clean sheets this season and named Kieran Trippier, Virgil van Dijk, Sven Botman and Dan Burn as his defenders.
Given chose Joelinton, Joe Willock and Bruno Guimarães as his midfielders and selected Mohamed Salah, Callum Wilson and Anthony Gordon to complete the forward line.
Given acknowledged that the majority of the squad is made up of Newcastle players but defended his selection based on current form.
He also suggested that if Newcastle were to finish in the top four this season, they could draw players over Liverpool.
Given has risked the wrath of Liverpool fans with his team. However, considering the stark contrast in the performances of the two teams, one could see why.
