Newcastle United prepare to face Liverpool on Monday Night Football.
In a much anticipated Premier League clash, both sides will want to improve on their opening games.
Newcastle drew 0-0 with Aston Villa in the early Saturday kickoff, despite dominating the game and having a man extra.
Liverpool may have won 4-2 on the Friday Night Football encounter with AFC Bournemouth, but there were defensive frailties that bring doubt into their ability to retain the Premier League title.
The clash between Newcastle and Liverpool not only brings form into the equation.
Liverpool submitted a bid of £110 million earlier this summer for wantaway Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.
The Swedish international has reportedly refused to play for the club again, with ambitions of playing for Liverpool.
He has made his feelings clear on his future, with a social media post claiming that promises had been broken, trust had been lost and that the relationship cannot continue.
This has led to a build up in anticipation of the Monday night clash.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe praises Liverpool signing ahead of Premier League clash
Speaking to the media prior to their Bank Holiday Monday clash, Howe discussed their former transfer target, Hugo Ekitike.
Newcastle made a bid for the Frenchman earlier this summer, before being beaten to his signature by Liverpool.
Ekitike has since gotten off to the perfect start for Arne Slot’s side, with two goals in as many games. Howe was quick to praise him.
He said: “There’s no doubt I really like Hugo and have done for a number of years. He’s got really good qualities and he showed that in his first Premier League game. He had a really good debut against Bournemouth.
“He’s got really good movement, intelligent, good in the air, scores goals, scores off both feet. Our job will be to keep him quiet. He is going to be a threat this year.”
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