English Top Flight Comes Back with Key Fitness News
England's top division returns this matchweek following the pause for national teams, with managers providing important team news ahead of the weekend's games.
Anfield Side Encounter Substantial Missing Players
Anfield coach Arne Slot has confirmed that the young defender, Jeremie Frimpong, and Wirtz will all be unavailable for this round's match against Forest.
However, first-choice shot-stopper the Brazilian has returned to fitness from his recent setback and is fit to play.
The manager stated that the versatile defender sat out training recently but should be ready for selection, though he probably won't be used for the full 90 minutes.
The Clarets Get Good Report on Their Striker
Burnley manager Scott Parker has revealed that striker Armando Broja may have "escaped major damage" after sustaining an knock while playing for the Albanian side against the English team.
The striker left the fixture on a stretcher, but follow-up assessments have indicated the problem is "very, very, very minor."
The Burnley manager added that the forward has participated in sessions since midweek and could yet face his previous employers Chelsea on the weekend.
St James' Park Side Injury Reports
St James' Park coach Howe has given news on multiple key squad members ahead of their game against Manchester City.
Anthony Gordon has "put in significant effort" to recover from his recent issue and is "touch-and-go" for the weekend's fixture.
Livramento is "very close" after returning from a knee problem and is also in the running for selection.
the goalkeeper is "okay" after following head injury assessment, while Joelinton and Tonali are both available to take on Manchester City.
Weekend Premier League Matches
- Turf Moor hosts Chelsea (Sat 12.30pm GMT)
- Forest visit Anfield (standard kickoff)
- The Cherries host West Ham (3pm)
- Wolves v Crystal Palace (3pm)
- Brentford travel to Brighton (standard kickoff)
- Sunderland visit Craven Cottage (afternoon)
- City travel to Newcastle (evening)
- Villa visit Elland Road (Sun afternoon)
- Spurs visit the Emirates (Sun evening)
- Everton visit Old Trafford (Mon 8pm)
Tactical Attention on Howe
St James' Park side could end up in the drop zone if they suffer defeat against City and other matches around them are unfavorable.
The historical record don't look good for the Newcastle manager, who has been unable to beat Pep Guardiola in numerous past top flight encounters.
The statistics against Guardiola stands at two stalemates and sixteen defeats from their past encounters.
"We've improved and definitely I've seen a massive improvement from us," commented Turf Moor coach Parker. "We need to work on little tiny bits at this current stage."
The return of top flight action comes after a eventful FIFA window that included unforgettable moments including the Scottish team's dramatic qualification for the international competition.