Liverpool vs Newcastle prediction 31.01.2026 | Premier League

Liverpool’s domestic season has been mixed, reflected in sub-par Premier League standing compared to recent title challenges. Recent form has been fluctuating: a heavy 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth in their latest league outing underlines defensive susceptibility, while a 6-0 Champions League victory over Qarabag provided a much-needed confidence boost. The Reds are yet to record a single Premier League win in the new year, although they have not lost at Anfield for the period of two months, which should be a huge confidence boost ahead of Saturday.

However, injuries are mounting. Reports indicate a deepening defensive crisis, with wing-back Jeremie Frimpong suffering another hamstring injury, and first-team defenders like Joe Gomez, Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley unavailable. Furthermore, key summer signing Alexander Isak - now at Liverpool after departing Newcastle - is sidelined long-term, reducing attacking firepower continuity.

Newcastle’s campaign has also been marked by fluctuation, albeit for different reasons. In league play, their away record of two wins, four draws and five defeats highlights a side that has struggled to secure points on the road. After recording three consecutive league victories within a nine-day span between 30 December and 7 January, the Magpies have since seen their Premier League momentum stall, failing to beat bottom-placed Wolves in a goalless draw before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa last weekend.

Injuries and absences continue to loom large for Eddie Howe’s squad. Midfielders Joelinton and Sandro Tonali have both been carrying knocks, while Newcastle’s defensive options have been stretched at various points this season. Meanwhile, a recent 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League saw the Magpies narrowly miss out on direct qualification for the playoffs, meaning Howe’s side must instead contest the round of 32.

Newcastle’s away struggles combine with a higher frequency of shutouts - they have failed to score in 6 of 11 away league fixtures - and while they have shown the ability to grind results at home, breaking down a home side like Liverpool remains statistically tougher.