Prediction: Liverpool vs Newcastle

As the shocking draw at Crystal Palace saw their title chances go up in smoke, Liverpool will need a real miracle on the final day of the Premier League season if they are to pip Manchester City to the coveted trophy. Newcastle arrive at Anfield looking to pour more misery on the Reds after finally ending a six-match losing run.

Liverpool have seen all the hard work ruined in just two games, with back to back slip ups against Chelsea and Crystal Palace all but ending their title dream. Such a scenario was really harsh on the Reds, who have been exceeding expectations throughout the season, with their attack-minded approach leading to some highly entertaining triumphs. And while Brendan Rodgers’ side were pretty unfortunate to suffer a home defeat to Chelsea, they were pretty naïve in the match at Selhurst Park, opting to try and improve their goal difference after taking a three-goal lead rather than ensuring they get the job done. Even a win over Crystal Palace would have seen them needing slip up from Manchester City on Sunday, but they now need to defeat Newcastle and Manchester City to lose in order to win the Premier League title. In spite of the major disappointment last weekend, the Reds can be trusted to beat out-of-sorts Newcastle and at least ensure they end the season on a high. It remains to be seen whether Jordan Henderson will be recalled after serving a three-match ban, with Jose Enrique again the only player on the sidelines.

Even if Newcastle have secured another top table finish, the reality is the fans are very unhappy with owner Mike Ashley and the way in which the club appear to be going. Star players have started leaving St James’ Park, with Yohan Cabaye already hone and Loic Remy, Hatem Ben Arfa and David Santon tipped to follow, so the Magpies clearly appear to be on a downtrend at the moment. The players have struggled to find motivation after effectively clinching Premier League survival, with six successive Premier League defeats definitely the lowest point of the season. Newcastle did end the barren run by defeating soon-to-be relegated Cardiff City, but the match against title chasers Liverpool will be a whole different ball game. The Magpies have been soundly beaten by most top 6 sides this term, especially since the turn of the year, and we cannot expect them to fare any better against the Reds. Alan Pardew has no fresh injury worries at the moment, but the likes of Davide Santon, Sammy Ameobi, Papiss Demba Cisse and Ryan Taylor all miss out through injury.

Conclusion

Goal difference may not decide the Premier League winner this term, but Liverpool will, nonetheless, be out to record a big win and sign off in style. Newcastle will be powerless to prevent their more illustrious opponents from winning on the final day of the season, with another disappointing defeat on the cards.

Verdict: Liverpool/Liverpool

Best Odds: 8/15

Bookmaker: bet365