Liverpool open their Premier League season at Newcastle United on Sunday week, and new head coach Andoni Iraola has a tough decision to make up front. The Reds go into the campaign without Mohamed Salah for the first time in a decade, and with limited new signings, the attacking options are restricted.
Limited options for the opener
Victor Munoz, the only new arrival in attack, won't be considered for a start after returning to pre-season training last week. Any further signings before the trip to Tyneside would have even less time to adapt, so Iraola is likely to go with what he has.
Alexander Isak is a certain starter on his first return to Newcastle since his controversial exit almost 12 months ago. Cody Gakpo, despite an iffy last season, showed fitness against Monaco and should start on the left. The right flank remains the problem position, with Kieran Morrison and Federico Chiesa having had a go, but Rio Ngumoha's significant minutes on that wing make him the most likely to complete the attack, with Florian Wirtz in behind Isak as the number 10.
Transfer talks ongoing
Talks are ongoing with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a move for Bradley Barcola, but even if he arrives before the opener, starting him would be bold. He has only just returned to training after World Cup exploits and was an unused substitute for PSG's European Super Cup win over Aston Villa.
Further recruitment is still needed following Salah's departure, with Hugo Ekitike sidelined until the New Year and uncertainty surrounding Gakpo and Chiesa's futures. But for the opener, Iraola is expected to go with what he knows.
Gakpo's role
Gakpo is likely to be a key player due to slow progress in the transfer market and Newcastle's own issues. With Tino Livramento injured, Newcastle's right-backs in a recent defeat to Everton were 19-year-old Leo Shahar and 18-year-old Henry Johnson. Gakpo's physicality and directness could pose problems for them.
The likely front three is Isak up front, Gakpo on the left, and Ngumoha on the right, with Munoz making his competitive debut from the bench.
