Premier League Returns with Key Fitness Updates
The Premier League kicks off again this weekend following the international break, with coaches providing crucial team news ahead of the weekend's games.
Anfield Side Deal With Substantial Missing Players
Reds boss Arne Slot has revealed that the young defender, the Dutch full-back, and Wirtz will all sit out this weekend's fixture against the visitors.
On a positive note, first-choice shot-stopper Alisson has regained full health from his recent setback and is fit to play.
The Liverpool boss admitted that the versatile defender sat out training on Thursday but should be ready for consideration, though it's unlikely he'll be risk for the entire match.
Turf Moor Side Get Good Update on Broja
Clarets boss the manager has stated that forward the Albanian may have "escaped major damage" after sustaining an ankle injury while appearing for the Albanian side against the English team.
Broja left the match on a medical cart, but subsequent checks have shown the issue is "much less severe than feared."
Scott Parker noted that their striker has trained since midweek and could yet feature versus his old team Chelsea on Saturday.
The Magpies Fitness Updates
Magpies boss the manager has offered updates on several key players ahead of their game against City.
the winger has "trained extensively" to get back from his recent issue and is "touch-and-go" for tomorrow's match.
Livramento is "very close" after overcoming a serious knee issue and is also in contention for the squad.
Pope is "alright" after following safety procedures, while Joelinton and Tonali are both available to play against City.
Weekend Top Flight Fixtures
- Chelsea travel to Burnley (Sat early kickoff UK time)
- Liverpool host Forest (afternoon)
- Bournemouth v West Ham (3pm)
- Palace visit Molineux (standard kickoff)
- Brentford travel to Brighton (afternoon)
- Fulham host Sunderland (afternoon)
- City travel to Newcastle (evening)
- Leeds host Villa (Sunday afternoon)
- Arsenal v Tottenham (Sunday 4.30pm)
- Everton visit Old Trafford (Monday night)
Tactical Focus on Eddie Howe
St James' Park side could end up in the bottom three if they lose against City and results around them go against them.
The omens are unfavorable for Howe, who has been unable to beat the City boss in 18 past top flight encounters.
His record against Pep stands at two stalemates and 16 losses from their previous meetings.
"We've developed and without doubt I've seen a huge development from us," said the Clarets coach Scott Parker. "They're just small details at this point in our development."
The return of top flight matches comes after a chaotic national team period that saw remarkable highlights including the Scottish team's thrilling achievement for the World Cup.