Summary: An injury ravaged Newcastle will look to get back on the winning trail against league leaders Liverpool. It will be a herculean task if they did, as the Barcodes are facing somewhat of an injury crisis at the moment. More on that later. On Boxing Day, Liverpool displayed one of their more convincing performances of the season, dispatching a poor Bolton side 3-0 in the easiest of manner. The Merseysiders showed the form of a realistic title winner, with Robbie Keane continuing his recent goal scoring form with two goals. Newcastle on the other hand were poor at Wigan and the narrow 2-1 scoreline flattered them. Centre-half Bassong was sent off midway through the second half to condemn Newcastle's fate as Zaki duly converted the spot kick for the Latics. As a consequence, Bassong will be suspended for this encounter. Joining him on the sidelines will be fellow first choice defenders, Beye and Jose Enrique, both succumbing to injury. As if to add more salt onto Newcastle wounds, Viduka is also out with a groin strain, meaning that Owen is the only first choice striker available for selection, if Martins and Ameobi don't pass late fitness tests. The visitors will remain without the injured Arbeloa and Skrtel but the big news is that Torres may possibly make an appearance after his lengthy injury spell.
Verdict: Newcastle's upturn in form in the last few months can be attributed to the fact that they have defended well. With a record of 4-4-2 in their last 10 encounters, Newcastle have conceded only 6 goals in the eight games where they have earned points. With the backline decimated by injury and suspension, the home side will find it very difficult to nullify Liverpool's attacking weapons. Steven Taylor who has played only 90 minutes of football in Newcastle's last 8 fixtures and one of either Cacapa or Edgar, will be asked to fill the vacancies. Manager, Joe Kinnear, has no choice but to bring in these players who are low in confidence and with minimal football under their belts. After a fine attacking display two days ago, I would be very surprised if Liverpool passed up the opportunity to take all three points here.
