Former Liverpool defender turned TV pundit Mark Lawrenson believes Jurgen Klopp’s side will come out victorious against Newcastle today.

The ex-Red believes former manager Rafa Benitez will make things difficult for the Merseysiders, but he feels Liverpool’s ability to rotate and field a more attacking line-up to break down a stubborn defence will prove vital:

“The Magpies will make it difficult for Liverpool but Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is able to change the shape of his team to a 4-2-3-1 when he wants to break stubborn sides down.”

“That allows Klopp to get an extra attack-minded midfielder into his team, which is what I can see him doing here. Liverpool look very strong at the moment, even when Klopp rotates his side, and he is able to change games from the bench. I am going for a home win to keep the Reds clear at the top.”

Lawrenson believes the Premier League leaders will come out 2-0 winners this afternoon. With two huge games coming up against Arsenal on Saturday, and Manchester City next week, it’s likely that Klopp will make a few changes for this game.

However, the Reds will be mindful of not looking too far ahead. The Magpies have been good away from home, having drawn against Everton and winning away against the likes of Burnley and Huddersfield in recent weeks. They also went 2-0 up against Manchester United at Old Trafford back in October before losing 3-2 following a second-half fightback from the home side.