Newsletter

Get your daily update and weekly newsletter by signing up today!

News

Paul Merson predicts Jurgen Klopp to give Newcastle helping hand

8 years ago
Share

Paul Merson predicts luck could be coming Newcastle’s way, with Jurgen Klopp also giving them a helping hand.

The timing of tomorrow’s Liverpool v Newcastle match leads the former Arsenal player to think that United may have another positive coming their way, following the much improved performances against Swansea and Manchester City.

Paul Merson was impressed with Newcastle on Tuesday night as they fought back for a draw and he thinks the result at Anfield could be in the balance, IF Newcastle turn up and take advantage of probable tinkering from Jurgen Klopp.

However, even if Klopp rests players with the trip to Villarreal in mind, as Merson points out the replacements haven’t been doing too badly recently.

Making 10 changes after the win over Dortmund, Liverpool still went to Bournemouth and won 2-1, whilst in the build up to that dramatic victory that put them into the Europa semis, Liverpool beat Stoke 4-1 with a much changed team.

Rafa Benitez seems to have finally found a defence he can put a bit of faith in, at least in the short-term. Only one conceded in the last three hours of football and that was the comedy offside one that Aguero scored.

United will need to be very much on their toes and Jamaal Lascelles revelling in his new found role of NUFC Sergeant Major, as he rouses those around him. After putting four past Everton, the red scousers have scored 15 in their last four matches in all competitions.

Paul Merson thinks the most probable result is a close win for Liverpool but covers himself with the possibility of a draw for the visitors.

With only four games left a point wouldn’t solve Newcastle’s problems but in the final analysis it could prove crucial, IF it is followed by must win results against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.

Paul Merson talking to Sky Sports:

“I was impressed with Newcastle against Man City, they were good.

“Liverpool keep on getting better and better under Jurgen Klopp and they put Everton to the sword in the derby.

“I fancy Liverpool here but, with a Europa League semi-final with Villarreal coming up, they may rest players – that said they still turn in decent performances when they do change their team.

“This is where luck in the relegation fight comes in because if Liverpool were challenging for the top four they would play a full-strength side, and that may help Newcastle’s cause.

“I expect Liverpool to just earn the win but I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s a draw.”

Share

If you would like to feature on The Mag, submit your article to contribute@themag.co.uk

Have your say

© 2024 The Mag. All Rights Reserved. Design & Build by Mediaworks