Arne Slot may be forced into an unexpected tactical gamble when Liverpool face Newcastle at St James’ Park on Monday night.
With tensions running high between the two clubs amid the Alexander Isak transfer saga, the Reds head into the clash with a right-back headache for the manager to solve.
Jeremie Frimpong is sidelined by a hamstring injury, Conor Bradley has only just resumed training after a similar setback, and Joe Gomez is still lacking sharpness after his own fitness issues.
Slot’s potential solution against Newcastle
According to Liverpool Echo journalist Paul Gorst, Slot might have to field Dominik Szoboszlai in an unfamiliar right-back role.
While not a natural defender, the Hungarian captain filled in there during pre-season and could offer composure on the ball, energy, and attacking drive that would help Liverpool keep control in a hostile atmosphere.
Gorst explained that Szoboszlai’s tireless running could prove crucial against Newcastle’s aggressive midfield, with Bradley an option to come off the bench later in the game.
A risky call early in the season
It’s hardly an ideal scenario for Slot to consider a midfielder at full-back so early in the campaign, but Liverpool’s injuries might force his hand.
With Gomez short of minutes and Bradley still regaining fitness, Szoboszlai could be the most practical choice to handle Newcastle’s threat down the left flank.
If none of the natural right-backs are deemed ready, the Hungarian looks set to fill the gap in what promises to be a high-stakes clash at St James’ Park.
