Premier League Comes Back with Key Fitness Reports
The English top flight kicks off again this round of fixtures following the FIFA window, with managers providing vital squad updates ahead of Saturday's fixtures.
Anfield Side Face Significant Absences
Reds boss Arne Slot has revealed that the young defender, the Dutch full-back, and the German midfielder will all sit out this round's fixture against the visitors.
Meanwhile, number one shot-stopper Alisson Becker has regained full health from his hamstring injury and is fit to play.
The Liverpool boss admitted that the versatile defender was absent from sessions on Thursday but will likely be available for selection, though he may not be used for the full 90 minutes.
The Clarets Receive Positive Report on Armando Broja
Clarets boss the manager has stated that striker Broja may have "avoided serious injury" after picking up an ankle injury while appearing for the Albanian side against England.
The 24-year-old left the fixture on a stretcher, but later assessments have indicated the issue is "not serious at all."
Scott Parker added that their striker has been in training since recently and could potentially play against his old team the Blues on Saturday.
The Magpies Fitness Reports
St James' Park coach Eddie Howe has offered reports on several key players ahead of their fixture against City.
Anthony Gordon has "trained extensively" to return from his hip injury and is "questionable" for tomorrow's encounter.
Tino Livramento is "very close" after recovering from a serious knee issue and is also in consideration for selection.
Pope is "fine" after following safety procedures, while the Brazilian and Tonali are both ready to play against the visitors.
Weekend English Football Matches
- Chelsea travel to Burnley (Sat 12.30pm UK time)
- Forest visit Anfield (afternoon)
- The Cherries host West Ham (3pm)
- Wolves v Crystal Palace (afternoon)
- The Seagulls host Brentford (standard kickoff)
- Fulham host Sunderland (3pm)
- City travel to Newcastle (late kickoff)
- Leeds host Villa (Sunday afternoon)
- Arsenal host Tottenham (Sunday late kickoff)
- United host Everton (Monday 8pm)
Managerial Attention on Howe
The Magpies could find themselves in the relegation zone if they are defeated against Manchester City and results in other games go against them.
The omens aren't great for the Newcastle manager, who has been unable to beat Guardiola in eighteen previous top flight matches.
Howe's history against Pep stands at two stalemates and sixteen defeats from their previous meetings.
"Our progress and certainly I've seen a significant progress from us," stated the Clarets coach Scott Parker. "We need to work on minor aspects at this point in our development."
The return of English football action comes after a chaotic FIFA window that featured remarkable highlights including Scotland's thrilling success for the World Cup.