"If Rodri would have been fit, I think they could have gone to the wire, but it doesn't look like he's going to be fit until maybe October," said the Sky Sports analyst.

"I think that changes the narrative with them, just because he's pivotal in what they do in terms of stopping counter-attacks.

"But Tijjani Reijnders from Milan is a really good player, he can play in No.

Ally McCoist's Premier League prediction as Liverpool fans get glimpse into future	Man United's £200m attack, Liverpool's weakness, new rules - and the player EVERYONE is talking about: 10 things to look out for in the 2025-2026 Premier League season	Celtic winger update, 32-cap ace gets Rangers encouragement, Liverpool ‘decide move’ - Scottish transfer news

"Rayan Cherki as well, he's a player who can impact the game, can play at No

10, can play the right, can play the left, wonderful left foot, he's both foot, he takes corners with his right foot and his left foot,

"Liverpool will be there, I think they will be my favorites this year

I think Martinelli's an impact player rather than a starter."

Jamie Carragher, fellow Sky pundit, also anticipates a competitive title race, cautioning that Liverpool won't easily clinch the title..

even if they sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle.

He said: "I think they are still likely to get Isak, but I don't get this narrative that Liverpool are going to run away with it.

"I think we will have a title race
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.