Liverpool may have to axe new signing as Arne Slot considers shaking up tactics

Liverpool FC experienced another thrilling ride on Monday evening, clinching a nail-biting 3-2 Premier League victory at Newcastle United. Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike netted either side of Anthony Gordon's dismissal before Bruno Guimaraes and William Osula equalised for Newcastle, only for young star Rio Ngumoha to grab a last-minute winner for the Reds.

Arne Slot's squad now face another stern test of their title defence as they host early frontrunners Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday afternoon. Despite six points from six so far, the Dutch boss appears to have some big calls to make.

Express Sport previews the potential changes Slot might implement...

Konate concern

Liverpool conceded two goals for the third consecutive match, with the revamped defence still experiencing growing pains. According to he Liverpool Echo, Slot is considering a big decision regarding the left-back position.

Milos Kerkez showed improvement at Newcastle but was caught out for the home side's first goal, putting him under pressure from Andy Robertson for a starting spot. On the opposite wing, while Dominik Szoboszlai performed admirably as an emergency right-back in Tyneside, there will be relief that Conor Bradley emerged unscathed from a late cameo and could now be prepared to start.

Joe Gomez, another alternative, is likely to be considered only for bench duty. Jeremie Frimpong is sidelined until after the upcoming international break.

Gomez's fitness concerns, coupled with new recruit Giovanni Leoni's absence from the pitch since joining Liverpool, virtually guarantees Ibrahima Konate's continued presence at centre-back alongside captain Virgil van Dijk, despite a shaky start to the season. Between the sticks, Alisson Becker demonstrated on Monday why he remains the undisputed first choice over Giorgi Mamardashvili and Freddie Woodman.

Mac Allister's availability

The midfield line-up will hinge on whether Alexis Mac Allister is deemed fit after missing the Newcastle match. If the Argentine international is cleared to play, he's likely to partner Gravenberch in central midfield for the first time since April.

However, if Mac Allister remains out of action, Slot has alternatives. Curtis Jones was in the starting line-up against Newcastle and Wataru Endo made a late appearance, while Szoboszlai could revert to a more familiar role if not needed at right-back.

Florian Wirtz has made a striking impression since arriving in England and is expected to retain his number 10 position, with Szoboszlai, Jones and Harvey Elliott as potential replacements.

Chiesa's potential

Ngumoha clinched victory on Monday but isn't prepared to start such a high-profile match as Arsenal's visit. As a result, Cody Gakpo is likely to maintain his position on the left wing.

Mohamed Salah has firmly established himself on the right flank, while Ekitike's impressive start as Liverpool's central striker continues, netting his third goal in as many matches at Newcastle. At the moment, Federico Chiesa is Liverpool's only other recognised forward, although Elliott has previously been deployed on both wings.