Expect Howe to set up in his usual 4-3-3, with the full-backs pushing high and the front three looking to isolate Liverpool's centre-backs. The midfield trio will be asked to win the second balls and feed the wide runners. It's a direct, vertical approach — knife through the lines if they get it right. But Liverpool's 4-2-3-1 under Iraola is a pressing trap waiting to spring. The double pivot will sit deep, cut off the supply lines, and then release the wide men on the break. This is where the game will be won and lost: the midfield dogfight.

Liverpool's front four will look to exploit the space behind Newcastle's advanced full-backs. With Wirtz pulling the strings in the hole, they can turn defence into attack in two passes. Newcastle's back line will have to be disciplined, but against this Liverpool press, they'll be forced into mistakes. Set pieces could be a factor too — both sides have height, but Liverpool's delivery has been more consistent. If Newcastle try to sit deep, they'll get picked apart. If they press high, they'll get caught on the counter. Either way, the tactical edge is with the visitors.