Liverpool’s midweek clash at St James’ Park was pure drama—six goals, two comebacks, and a sting in the tail. The Reds looked set for a 3-2 triumph before Fabian Schar pounced late, capitalising on a costly error from Caoimhin Kelleher to snatch a point for Newcastle.
Arne Slot’s men remain perched at the Premier League summit, but their cushion is thinner. Chelsea and Arsenal have cut the gap to seven points, while Manchester City trail by nine after halting their own slump.
Mohamed Salah rightly took the headlines with two goals and an assist, yet Alexis Mac Allister’s influence in midfield was just as telling.
The Argentine bossed the centre, winning 10 of 16 duels and completing 92% of his passes. Every dribble he attempted came off. Still, there was a downside—his fifth yellow card of the season means suspension for the Merseyside derby.
It’s a blow. Everton away is never a formality, and Sean Dyche’s side will be buoyed by a 4-0 demolition of Wolves. With this being the last Goodison Park derby, the Toffees will be desperate to leave their mark.
Liverpool will now turn to others. Ryan Gravenberch, who struggled against Newcastle with just two wins from seven duels, must raise his game. Dominic Szoboszlai should slot back into the starting XI, likely pushing Curtis Jones into a deeper role alongside Gravenberch, with Szoboszlai carrying the attacking threat.
Mac Allister’s absence removes a calming, creative force from the heart of Liverpool’s midfield. On Saturday, the league leaders will need someone else to steady the storm.