Under the Monday night lights at St James’ Park, Liverpool face what could be their first major test of the season. Their six-goal triumph over Bournemouth highlighted their attacking brilliance, but it also revealed defensive weaknesses. To complicate matters further, summer signing Jeremie Frimpong has been sidelined with injury, forcing Arne Slot into an early tactical dilemma.
The St James’ Park Challenge
Newcastle’s home ground remains one of the most daunting venues in English football. Under Eddie Howe, the Magpies have transformed it into a fortress defined by intensity, discipline, and relentless crowd energy. For Liverpool, carrying the momentum from their opening victory while adjusting to missing players will be no small task.
The Blow of Frimpong’s Absence
Frimpong’s hamstring injury comes at the worst possible time. Brought in for his pace and dynamism on the right flank, the Dutchman was expected to bring balance to Liverpool’s defense and attack. With recovery from hamstring problems often slow, Slot could be forced to improvise for several weeks.
Slot’s Four Possible Fixes
Slot has four options to cover at right-back:
Joe Gomez: the most experienced choice, though his fitness record remains a concern.
Conor Bradley: brings youthful energy, but lacks match sharpness after his own injury troubles.
Wataru Endo: a creative reshuffle that would use his discipline in an unfamiliar role, though his lack of pace is a risk.
Dominik Szoboszlai: the boldest option, sacrificing his attacking threat to gain control deeper in midfield.
Each solution has drawbacks, and each could alter Liverpool’s balance both in pressing and midfield play.
Newcastle’s Tactical Threat
Eddie Howe’s team thrive on pressing and physical dominance in midfield. Their high-energy approach disrupts opponents and forces mistakes. If Liverpool’s right side proves vulnerable, Newcastle will be quick to exploit it with overloads and rapid transitions.
Liverpool’s Attacking Advantage
Despite the defensive uncertainty, Liverpool’s attack still carries serious weight. Mohamed Salah remains the focal point, linking with Cody Gakpo and new signing Hugo Ekitike. The young striker impressed on debut with sharp movement and finishing, and their combined chemistry could be the key to unlocking Newcastle’s defense.
An Early Defining Test
Frimpong’s absence has exposed Liverpool’s lack of depth in a vital position, testing Slot’s adaptability just two games into the campaign. His decision at right-back — whether to trust experience, back youth, or take a tactical gamble — will shape how his leadership is judged in these early stages.
For Liverpool, this game represents more than just three points. A strong performance at St James’ Park would underline their resilience and strengthen belief in Slot’s project. For Newcastle, it is another opportunity to prove they belong among the Premier League’s elite.
The stage is perfectly set for a dramatic night under the lights, with Slot’s right-back decision at the heart of it all.
