Rafa Benitez aiming for positive result against Liverpool

Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez doesn’t need reminding about his achievements in 2005 when he led Liverpool to their fifth European Cup, their first in the Champions League era.

Expect Rafa Benitez to prepare his side for the visit of Liverpool as he would for any other game. The media have been discussing whether Benitez will give Liverpool an easy time of it when the sides meet at St James’ Park. The Reds are on track for a Premier League tally of 97 points, but Newcastle will be up for their final home game of the season.

The Newcastle faithful are staunchly proud, they expect 100% from the players wearing the black and white shirt of their club. Rolling over for Jürgen Klopp’s side isn’t an option for Benitez or the Toon Army. Benitez made it clear in his press conference that his side will be professional in Saturday’s encounter with Liverpool.

"We are professional, and we have to do our job. My relationship with the city of Liverpool or the club or the fans is there – I was there six years, we won some trophies and I have very good memories. But at the same time, we have to do our jobs like they will do it – I’m sure Jürgen Klopp is in the same position. He will try to do his best for his fans. We have 52,000 in our stadium, it’s the last home game of the season – I think everybody understands that we are professionals, and we will try to do our best – via nufc.co.uk"

Newcastle versus Liverpool head-to-head

Liverpool dismantled The Magpies in the reverse fixture on Boxing Day, a game in which the Reds thumped Benitez’s side 4-0. Liverpool have won seven Premier League games on the spin, and Saturday’s game is another challenge for Klopp. The Liverpool manager must get a response from his side after the disappointing 3-0 defeat to Barcelona in midweek.

The Premier League title race has been anything but enjoyable for fans of the top two. Newcastle fans won’t mind one bit if the championship heads back to Manchester. There’s not a lot of love for The Reds on Tyneside. Klopp’s title dream could end at the hands of a former Liverpool manager. Football can be the cruellest of sports.

Trent Alexander-Arnold could return to the Liverpool starting XI. Newcastle’s Javier Manquillo will hope to play against his former club. I expect Liverpool to battle for a narrow 2-1 victory. Over to Manchester City.