Opta explains why Liverpool are backed to beat Newcastle at Anfield

Liverpool are being backed to win against Newcastle United on Saturday night, and Opta’s numbers explain why despite our stuttering Premier League run.

It’s a big one at Anfield, with Arne Slot’s side sitting sixth on 36 points and Eddie Howe’s Newcastle ninth on 33, so the outcome matters for the European places.

The immediate mood swing is obvious too, because we thrashed Qarabag 6-0 in the Champions League in midweek, even if the league form has been far less convincing since the turn of the year.