Why Alexis Mac Allister isn’t in the matchday squad for Liverpool against Newcastle

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Arne Slot named his Liverpool matchday squad to face Newcastle United, with no Alexis Mac Allister.

The 26-year-old started in the Reds’ win against Bournemouth on the opening day but will miss the trip to St James’ Park.

Liverpool are, of course, in for a hostile atmosphere in the North East – Alexander Isak’s intention to play at Anfield this season has dominated headlines for both clubs.

​Nevertheless, the starting lineups for the clash at St James’ Park are in, and here is why Mac Allister will not take part.

Why Alexis Mac Allister is missing for Liverpool

Although widespread reports suggested Mac Allister would miss tonight’s clash due to the birth of his child, similar to when Ryan Gravenberch missed the Community Shield loss against Crystal Palace, reporter Ian Doyle has confirmed he is absent due to a “minor fitness issue”.

​The Argentine will be a significant loss for the Reds – Mac Allister has been likened to Paul Scholes for his contributions at Anfield.

​Curtis Jones was expected to play full-back on Monday evening, but he will join Gravenberch at the base of the midfield three.

​Dominik Szoboszlai will slot in at right-back to replace the injured Jeremie Frimpong, who will be sidelined until the September international break.

​Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley are only fit enough to make the bench at St James’ Park, but Slot will have options if the Hungarian fails to adapt to the position change.

Liverpool starting XI vs Newcastle United

With the exception of Szoboszlai at right-back, the Liverpool team is as expected without Mac Allister.

• Confirmed Liverpool XI: Alisson, Szoboszlai, Konate, van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Jones, Wirtz, Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo
• Substitutes: Mamardashvili, Gomez, Endo, Bradley, Chiesa, Leoni, Elliott, Robertson, Ngumoha