Newcastle Approach
In the preceding game back in December I reviewed the game on AnfieldIndex and it was clear from re-reading that piece that Liverpool were quite lethargic in that game. If it wasn’t for the intervention of Steven Gerrard the game was more than likely heading for a draw. Newcastle that day played a slightly defensive 4-5-1/4-4-1-1 with Vuckic playing in the zone just behind Demba Ba and then dropping into midfield to give an extra man there when they lost possession. I’d be even more surprised if Pardew went with that formation and set-up considering they are playing at home and taking into account how fragile Liverpool have been recently.
This is how I see Newcastle line-up for the game. In a more orthodox 4-4-2, I wouldn’t imagine it will be too far from the same side and formation that beat WBA. Demba Ba and Cisse should both start up front with the two wingers being Ben Arfa and Guiterrez on the other side.  Ben Arfa will play as a more straight forward winger and will hope to give Newcastle some width on that side. Guitierrez on the other side should operate slightly tucked in from the sideline and look to come and link up with the front players.
Newcastle are not a team who command a lot of possession. They average 47.5% in their games this season and have a modest passing success rate of 76.3%. It’s an indication that they can still win games without dominating. It’s also a sign that they are comfortable with opposing teams having the ball. Newcastle have scored 3 goals from counter attacks this season. Although it may not seem a lot, only Arsenal and City have scored more from counter attacking situations this season.
In their last 3 games they have attempted 162 long balls but were successful with only 50 of them. You can see from the StatZone image the amount of long balls from the goalkeeper that were unsuccessful. Also notice the amount to the left side. 21% of all Newcastle attacks come down their left side, only Bolton and Wigan have attacked down that side more in the Premier League this season. This left side emphasis will be placed in context below when discussing Liverpool’s approach to the game.
On Page 3: Newcastle’s Players Statistically
