Wed Feb 26 20:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Liverpool Manager Slot Banned, But Selects Team for Crucial Newcastle Clash

**Liverpool, England** – Liverpool manager Arne Slot will miss Wednesday night’s crucial clash against Newcastle United due to a two-match suspension, but his influence will still be felt. Slot, who masterminded a 2-0 victory over Manchester City last weekend, selected the starting XI for the Anfield encounter before beginning his ban. Assistant coach John Heitinga will lead the team from the touchline.

Slot’s suspension stems from a controversial 2-2 draw with Everton, where he and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were charged with improper conduct towards match officials. Both have accepted the charges and will serve two-game bans. This is Slot’s second suspension of the season.

The Liverpool team shows two changes from the City win, with Diogo Jota returning to the starting lineup alongside Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz. Meanwhile, Newcastle will be without Alexander Isak, with Callum Wilson leading the attack.

**Liverpool Starting XI:** Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Salah, Diaz, Jota

**Newcastle Starting XI:** Pope; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Tonali, Willock, Guimaraes; Murphy, Gordon, Wilson

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