Liverpool vs Newcastle: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 31 January 2026
One of the fixtures of Premier League Matchweek 24 will take place on Saturday at Anfield in Liverpool, where the home side Liverpool faces off against Newcastle United. Here’s a betting tip based on the hosts’ motivation and the Magpies’ disappointing head-to-head record.
Match preview
The Reds entered 2026 in a clear slump, snapping an impressive unbeaten streak and still searching for their first Premier League win of the new calendar year. The painful defeat to Bournemouth in the dying minutes marked the third time the team dropped points in stoppage time, highlighting issues with concentration. Arne Slot is trying to find the right balance, but the squad lacks reliability and confidence at the back.
Liverpool’s defensive line has been heavily depleted: a string of injuries to the likes of Frimpong, Leoni, Gomez, and Konaté have forced the manager into unconventional solutions, including deploying holding midfielders in central defense. This has negatively impacted the team’s play, especially during transitions and set pieces, where opponents regularly find space.
The Magpies are suffering from a similar crisis of consistency: just one win in their last five matches and two games without scoring. The loss to Aston Villa underscored just how dependent the team is on Bruno Guimarães—without him, Newcastle almost always loses balance and control in midfield. His return should strengthen the center, but a host of other injuries keeps the overall situation tense.
The situation is further complicated not only by personnel losses but also by a psychological burden—Newcastle have historically struggled badly at Anfield. In their last 19 Premier League visits to Liverpool, the visitors have lost 16 times, conceding at least twice in nearly every match. With their poor away form and limited rotation options, Eddie Howe’s side face long odds.
Probable line-ups
- Liverpool: Becker, Kerkez, van Dijk, Endo, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Gakpo, Wirtz, Salah, Ekitike
- Newcastle: Pope, Thiaw, Botman, Burn, Trippier, Guimarães, Tonali, Hall, Barnes, Wissa, Gordon
Match facts and head-to-head
- Liverpool have won 16 of their last 19 home Premier League matches against Newcastle
- In 10 of the last 11 head-to-heads at Anfield, Newcastle have conceded at least two goals
- Newcastle have won just 3 away games this season
Prediction
Liverpool may be inconsistent, but they have both historical and tactical advantages over Newcastle, especially at home. Despite their squad issues, the Reds should capitalize on Newcastle’s poor away form and end their winless run in the league. Newcastle approach this clash weakened and burdened by a dismal Anfield record, making Liverpool clear favorites. Expect a hard-fought encounter with Liverpool securing a crucial victory.
