Eddie Howe provides the latest on his Brazilian stars ahead of Saturday’s crucial trip to Anfield.
Newcastle United travel to Anfield this Saturday to face Liverpool in a high-stakes Premier League encounter. Manager Eddie Howe faces a major selection headache with key Brazilian duo Bruno Guimarães and Joelinton both fighting for fitness.
The Brazilian Midfield Situation
Captain Bruno Guimarães remains a doubt for the clash. After picking up an ankle injury against PSV and remaining an unused substitute in the midweek Champions League draw with PSG, the midfielder faces a race against time.
“It’s still unknown,” Howe admitted during Friday’s press conference. “He trained yesterday, but it was more of a test. Today is when we will really decide if he can feature against Liverpool.”
Meanwhile, Joelinton has been ruled out for the immediate future. The powerful midfielder traveled to Barcelona this week to receive a specialist injection for a recurring groin issue. While the news is positive Howe expects him back in “weeks, not months” he will definitely miss the trip to Merseyside.
Defensive Blow: Livramento Out Until March
The Magpies’ injury crisis extends to the backline. Tino Livramento is set for an extended spell on the sidelines following a hamstring injury. A second scan confirmed that the full-back is likely out until early March, dealing a blow to Newcastle’s defensive rotations.
Liverpool Team News: Frimpong Sidelined
The hosts also have their own concerns. Jeremie Frimpong is officially out after picking up a muscle injury during the Reds’ 6-0 thrashing of Qarabag. However, Arne Slot is expected to welcome back Ibrahima Konaté and Curtis Jones to the matchday squad.
Champions League Outlook
Beyond domestic duties, Newcastle now know their European path. Following the draw, the Magpies are set to face Qarabag in the Champions League playoffs, with the first leg scheduled for February 18th.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
