NEWCASTLE COACH SAYS THIS IS...

THERE will be an extra edge to Monday's Premier League clash between Liverpool and their hosts Newcastle United at St James’ Park at 9pm. 

The Magpies’ Swedish striker Alexander Isak, 25, is at the heart of the added spice to the match, with the hitman not playing in the clash because he is trying to force through a move to Liverpool. 

Newcastle coach Eddie Howe wants his 12th man to give them the edge in their home clash. 

Howe tells the club’s website: “The first home game is always going to be electric. Under the lights, evening games are always really special for us.

“I have no doubt this will be a really passionate display from the home support. We need to use that – but not be reckless with it. We’ve got to concentrate and deliver our game plan, but using the energy from the crowd will be vital for us. We want to keep fighting for titles, we want to keep playing at a really good level, really high level. It’s really important for me.” 

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson said of the match: “Newcastle away is always tough to play, but it’s a great place for a football player who likes a big challenge. That’s what we are here at Liverpool FC, that’s [how] a player who plays at the highest level has to be.

“We like these kinds of games, we like to play these kinds of games, but we know that we’re going to face a great opponent that in the last two, three years has grown a lot, played really good football.

“They have a really strong team and I think their supporters make an amazing atmosphere at their ground. So, we have to be ready to give our best if we want to get the chance to get three points.”

Newcastle played to a goalless draw with Aston Villa in their first league game, while the Reds beat Bournemouth 4-2.