FT: Liverpool 2-0 Newcastle

1. Sterling with mazy run and finish
2. Allen lashes home after poor defending
3. Sissoko off after second booking
4. Liverpool now fifth - 4pts off fourth
5. Newcastle suffer fifth straight league defeat

That is it for this evening though.

Goals from Raheem Sterling and Joe Allen move Liverpool to within four points of fourth-placed Manchester City. Their Champions League hopes remain alive.

Join us on BBC Sportsday from 08:00 BST tomorrow.

It has been a pleasure.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers suggest there are plenty of twists and turns to go yet in the Premier League.

He's not wrong. Chelsea may be looking like having the title sewn up but the battle for the top five and the fight for relegation is as intense as ever.

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Thabo Mbili: Coutinho's the best midfielder player in the league.

Sam Bennett: Liverpool fans are acting like they've just beaten Barcelona. And that Coutinho is better than Messi, when he couldn't get a touch against United or Arsenal.

Reece Ecky Sharp: Watch your back, Man City!

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Manager reaction

More from Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers on Sky Sports:

"I think Philippe Coutinho was incredible, sensational. He played in that hole between the midfield and their defence and was outstanding. He showed why he is one of the best players in the best league in the world.

"Raheem is very valuable. He wants to learn all the time and he will want to have had three goals.

"I will speak to him about his off-field responsibilities and we will move on."

Manager reaction

Liverpool say they will speak to Raheem Sterling after he was pictured apparently taking nitrous oxide.

More from Brendan Rodgers on Raheem Sterling: "He is very valuable. He is a kid who's non-stop, he wants to learn and improve himself. I thought he was outstanding tonight. Wonderful skill and ability for his goal.

"He presses the ball so well. It is one where internally, we will always look after these type of items. He is a young kid who is in the spotlight now. He knows the demands of being a top class player and professional, both on off the field. I will speak with him about and we will move on."

Manager reaction

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers on Sky Sports: "I thought we showed attacking intent in the game, won the ball back quickly and controlled the game until the last five six minutes in the first half, when we started to give the ball away too cheaply.

"I think we were fortunate not to give away a penalty, but thankfully it didn't go against us. Joe Allen is very much an unsung player for us. He does a lot of the dirty work for us, pressing the ball excellently and great in possession.

"Manchester City have maybe opened up the door a wee bit and if we keep winning our games we will see what will happen but I am sure that there will be plenty of twists and turns to come still."

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Sir HC Rockets: Another poor display from Newcastle, yet we're not shocked. Under Cashley we expect nowt and get nowt!

Laurie Armitt: If anyone is looking for a team to play a testimonial against, I think Newcastle are up for it.

Chin Chong: Would love, right now, to see Alan Pardew's face.

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Manager reaction

Newcastle boss John Carver on the BBC: "Once we went 1-0 down we seemed to grow in the game. We were on the front foot and we don't get a major decision. I keep coming in front of the camera and talking about it but everyone out there has seen it is a penalty. Even Brendan said straight away it is a penalty.

"I will phone Mike Riley tomorrow, he will probably agree but it gets us nothing.

"We have six cup finals and we need to pick up some pints by hook or by crook. That is why our fans are going to be important to us. I have enough belief in this group of lads and if we see anything near what I saw tonight there won't be a problem."

Manager reaction

Newcastle manager John Carver on Sky Sports: "I thought it was good reaction after last weekend. We had energy and caused Liverpool some real problems and it was a huge decision that changed the game when Ayoze Perez went down under Dejan Lovren's challenge.

"I thought it was stone-wall and looking back at it it was.

"We were tentative in the first ten minutes but we grew into the game and Ayoze Perez forced a great save out of Simon Mignolet as well."

BBC Radio 5 live

Empics

Earlier we learned that cricket legend Sir Viv Richards is a Liverpool supporter, and he would be keeping an eye on tonight's game alongside ex-England bowler Graeme Swann. Both are working for Test Match Special out in Antigua.

And Swann has joined Danny Mills and Kelly Cates on the 5 live Football Social to discuss his beloved Newcastle:

"I can understand Newcastle fans wanting to boycott games. Our owner says we won't bother to try and win the league or a cup. That attitude leads to a general malaise. We've now lost five on the bounce, and we didn't look like winning any of those games.

"Alan Pardew chose to leave Newcastle to move to Palace, who were struggling at the time. That shows something. He's a good football manager and he's come out of this smelling of roses. The club hasn't."

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Sebastian Ampofo: Turning out into a forgettable second half of the season for Newcastle. Carver surely isn't the right man to take Newcastle forward, and nor is Mike Ashley for that matter.

Toasted Cylon: Sterling proved he's not worth the £50m that's been bandied about. A couple of woeful misses showed that.

Philip Cairns: Newcastle, do you want to be in the Championship next season? You have the best supporters ever, do something for them!

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Paying the penalty

Newcastle will point to a very good penalty shout being turned down at just 1-0 down in the first half.

Ayoze Perez looked to be hacked down by a clumsy Dejan Lovren and maybe things could have been very different had that been given.

Liverpool's Joe Allen tells Sky Sports he thought it could have been a penalty. It was Joe.

Match stats

- Newcastle have picked up six red cards in their last six Premier League encounters with Liverpool.

- Joe Allen became the 15th player to score for Liverpool in the Premier League this season. Only in 1992-93 have they had more (16).

- Newcastle have now conceded 11 goals in their last four Premier League away games.

- Jordan Henderson has now assisted eight goals in the Premier League this season, his best ever total.

Player reaction

Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson on their Champions League hopes: "We have still got ground to make up but we have to keep winning games and come the end of the season you never know."

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Mike Ashley wants to sell Newcastle, make some money on the football club. If you have a stadium where the fans aren't turning up, that's not good for business, not good for advertising. That might be the only thing that forces Mike Ashley to sell up. But it has to be en masse, in their tens of thousands, if it is to make a difference. And are Newcastle fans willing to miss their first games in 20, 30, 40 even 50 years?

"Do Newcastle fans wish they had treated Alan Pardew better? He was never liked at St James' Park, but sometimes better the devil you know. Be careful what you wish for."

Some Newcastle fans are planning a boycott of the weekend's visit from Spurs.

Opta

Fairly straight forward stuff for Liverpool this evening - although Newcastle having as many as 10 shots does surprise me a little. Not many of them were very close.

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Sam Lockwood: Just poor again from Newcastle. No manager, poor tactics and no funding from the chairman. Will the poor run ever end?

Simon Daniels: Coutinho was amazing tonight.

Andrew Branton: I would love QPR, Sunderland and Newcastle to go down...

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Fight for the Champions League

BBC

What has that done to the Premier league table then?

Liverpool will still fully believe they can make the top four as they move to within four points of fourth-placed Manchester City.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"It wasn't a thrilling match, but Liverpool dominated the game. I thought Newcastle might have had a reaction and they second half, and they did but they were just lacking in quality. The Toon simply weren't good enough, and the travelling fans will be very disheartened.

"I still think Newcastle will survive, what with Cisse coming back very soon from his seven game ban. I think they'll get at least a couple more points and the way this season has gone that should be enough to make them safe. I'd be very surprised if they don't collect a few more points. Newcastle have to keep the faith, they have to hope."

FULL-TIME

AFP

A warm round of applause from the home fans for a victory that never really looked in doubt. Not a match that will join the highlights reel of past Liverpool v Newcastle matches.

Ryan Taylor sums up a forgettable individual performance with a 30-yard free-kick that is tamely curled over the bar.

Liverpool passing the ball around but Newcastle get a free-kick 30 yards from goal. Time for a consolation strike?

Into four minutes of injury time.

Can Liverpool grab a third? They don't look particularly bothered.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"The goal Raheem Sterling scored was probably his hardest chance of all. Later, he missed an absolute sitter at the far post, followed by a volley on his left foot that missed the target completely. He should be taking home the match ball, really."

Reuters

Now Liverpool's time to change things as Rickie Lambert replaces Raheem Sterling.

The England forward leaves the field to a pretty decent ovation from the home fans. Seems his reluctance to sign a new deal has done little to sour his relationship with the supporters.

SUBSTITUTION

Not exactly the most attacking change from John Carver as he replaces striker Ayoze Perez with winger Yoan Gouffran.

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John Dunthorne: Should have been a straight red.

Ash Goldsmith: Horrible challenge from Sissoko, probably worth a red on its own.

Jeet Padaruth: How was that a second yellow?! Disgraceful, career ending tackle. Lucas lucky to be walking off the pitch.

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What a miss!

Raheem Sterling's radar has been a little off tonight. The Liverpool forward receives the ball unmarked just 16 yards from goal but he can't keep his shot down.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Sissoko mistimes it, but I don't think he means it. He goes over the top of the ball but his hands come up in apology immediately. He hasn't stamped down or followed through - he went to block the ball with his studs and his follow-through catches Lucas. It also wasn't exactly violent."

RED CARD FOR NEWCASTLE

Reuters

Ouch. The Newcastle midfielder Moussa Sissoko can have absolutely no complaints as he receives a second yellow card for a mistimed tackle on Lucas. It could have been a straight red.

Joe Allen is almost at it again. Dejan Lovren heads a ball from a corner back across goal, the midfielder hooks it towards goal but Ryan Taylor partially heads away and goalkeeper Simon Mignolet completes the clearance.

As long as Liverpool keep hold of this win, they will move just four points off a Champions League spot. It isn't all over yet - especially given Manchester City's recent form.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Until Cisse comes back this season is going to be a real grind for Newcastle and their support. I'd be interested to hear from the fans in our 5 live Football Social - call us on 0500 909 693. Are they prepared to boycott the game at the weekend in order to try and make a point to Mike Ashley? Have they hot rock bottom? Where do they go from here?"

AFP

Moussa Sissoko and Glen Johnson lose their toys from their pram for a second as they stage a poor version of a wrestling match over a disagreement about a throw on. Both booked and on we go.

This defeat - you can't see them staging a comeback - will leave Newcastle just nine points clear of the bottom three. On this form it wouldn't be beyond the realms of possibility for them to go pointless.

SUBSTITUTION

Newcastle's 18-year-old local boy Adam Armstrong is on for Mehdi Abeid in attack. He can't do a lot worse.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"A lapse in concentration from Newcastle's defence. First the mistake from Williamson that led to the corner, and then once it drifted in the ball dropped and popped back to Joe Allen who fired it into the top corner of the net. Game over for me - Newcastle will not come back from this."

Mike Williamson has had a five minutes to forget. I'm not sure he will want to remember much of the match to be honest.

It was the defender who gave the ball away to Fabio Borini as Liverpool forced a corner in the build up to their second goal.

He then gifts the hosts the goal.

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David McNaught: A Joe Allen goal? I'm going to buy me a lottery ticket!

Sonnie Y-B: You know it's your day when Joe Allen scores...

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CLOSE!

Dejan Lovren climbs above Mike Williamson and heads over. Liverpool are in the mood.

GOAL

AFP

Some more horrible, horrible defending by Newcastle. Mike Williamson can't cope with a simple ball into the penalty area, it hits his chest and Joe Allen is on hand to fire home the loose ball from close range.

Allen's first goal since THAT 3-3 draw at Crystal Palace last season. This should be more straightforward.

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Andrew Branton: If you're going to demand £100,000 a week you have to score from seven yards, Sterling! Done yourself no favours there!

David Simpson: You can Anfield groan every time Johnson or Lovren have the ball.

Sean Woodcock: The real Dejan Lovren must have been kidnapped. Unrecognisable from the player he was last season.

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SUBSTITUTION

Gabriel Obertan is a little Forest Gumpish in his style. He runs and runs and runs but, when he gets to the other end of the pitch, he doesn't know what to do.

Obertan is replaced by Jonas Gutierrez, who receives a standing ovation from all stands after his cancer battle. Brilliant gesture from the Liverpool fans.

Get calling...

BBC Radio 5 live

Lines open for the 5 live Football Social, which starts at 22:00 GMT. If you're a Newcastle fan, did you boycott tonight's game? Only 800ish of you travelled to Anfield. Liverpool supporters, has Raheem Sterling won you round? And is finishing fourth more important than winning the FA Cup?

And also - Manchester City fans - is it time to part company with boss Manuel Pellegrini?

Contact the programme by calling 0500 909 693, text 85058 or via @bbc5live on social media.

Newcastle are under the cosh. In a similar pattern to the first half, the visitors started well before dropping deeper and deeper. A Liverpool second looks inevitable at the moment.

PA

Don't worry though Newcastle fans, I have been wrong before...

Philippe Coutinho really is a beautiful footballer. Again, the ball appears to be on a string at his feet as he jinks one way, then the other, before shooting at goalkeeper Tim Krul.

Liverpool taking control again.

SUBSTITUTION

Great reaction from Brendan Rodgers to that Raheem Sterling miss. The Liverpool boss holds up his right arm ready to celebrate before walking away as the ball goes wide.

He has seen enough as he brings on Fabio Borini for the ineffectual Jordan Ibe.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

PA

"That should have been a simple clearance for Ryan Taylor with his left foot, but he missed it completely. And then Raheem Sterling completely missed his tap-in at the far post. I wonder whether Liverpool will come to regret that missed chance. It was a golden opportunity - all Sterling had to do was hit the target and it would have been 2-0, with him then on a hat-trick."

What a miss!

Getty Images

How has Raheem Sterling missed that? Jordan Henderson breaks down the right and plays the ball in low to the Liverpool forward. Ryan Taylor woefully misses his kick for Newcastle but, just yards out, Sterling somehow dribbles the ball wide with his left foot.

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Andrew Smith: Since Alan Pardew left Newcastle this year, they have taken nine points whereas Crystal Palace have taken 25. Wow.

Rory: Newcastle could easily go down this year. Apart from Krul, Perez and Sissoko they have no quality players.

Keith Spriggs: I feel sorry for John Carver...

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Absolutely terrible from Liverpool. The hosts have a free kick deep inside their own half. Emre Can dallies and dallies some more before playing short to Jordan Henderson. The ball is straight back at him and he is dispossessed by Moussa Sissoko. Sums up Liverpool's start to the second half. Some fight from Newcastle though.

Moussa Sissoko combines with Gabriel Obertan but slips as he shoots from the left and it is easy for Simon Mignolet to collect.

Another Newcastle corner comes to nothing but Liverpool have to wake up. They have been poor so far this half.

AP

Liverpool are temporarily forced to play with 10 men, as Emre Can receives treatment. The defender is back on though as Newcastle force another corner. Mehdi Abeid's shot is blocked from the edge of the penalty area but Newcastle are on top here.

An awful header from Dejan Lovren gifts Ayoze Perez possession, who forces yet another corner...

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Better from Newcastle. If they get further up the pitch they'll cause Liverpool some problems. The hosts do have, of course, a makeshift back four."

No, After some pin ball stuff around the edge of the penalty area, Gabriel Obertan heads wide.

That looks nasty though. As the Newcastle midfielder lands, he stands on Emre Can's ankle and the Liverpool man is in agony. Pure accident.

Newcastle start the half on the front foot. Corner. Can they stun the Kop?

A reminder of tonight's teams.

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Johnson, Can, Lovren, Moreno, Allen, Lucas, Henderson, Ibe, Coutinho, Sterling

Newcastle XI: Krul, R.Taylor, Janmaat, Williamson, Colback, Anita, Abeid, Sissoko, Cabella, Obertan, Perez.

KICK-OFF

Getty Images

Here come the teams again. Hair dryer treatment from John Carver? Game on.

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Infostrada Sports ‏on Twitter: Liverpool are unbeaten in last 68 Premier League matches they led at half time, since a 2-1 defeat at Spurs on 28 Nov 2010.

Some stat that...

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AP

Chengetai Mashavave: "I can see clearly now that top four's gone. I can see ol' Brendan in my way..."

Harry Partridge: "Take me down to Manchester City, where the grass is green and the money is pretty."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

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Nic Wirtz: Newcastle with one penalty in 16 months and we should have had four in the last five matches. Joke officiating.

Simon Murphy: How was that not a pen? Amazing decision.

Ben Fides: Newcastle haven't been in this game at all, but how on earth that wasn't a penalty I will never know!

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Opta

Do you think Newcastle midfielder Vurnon Anita has been told to stay as wide as he can. Judging by his touch map above he has...

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EPA

EPM: "Go now go, walk out the door. Don't turnaround now, you're not welcome anymore. We will survive."

Musambo Phiri: To Sam Smith's Stay: "This ain't love it's clear to see, but Raheem stay with me...."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Opta

Liverpool have had all of the ball in that first half but, on the break, Newcastle have shown they can cause problems.

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PA

Raheem Sterling wants the Kop to sing him a new song. Well, you've been supplying some suggestions:

Sean Graham: "I want to break free!"

Sophie Payne: "Pleased to meet you. Hope you know my name. But what's puzzling you is the nature of my money game."

EPM: "Go now go, walk out the door. Don't turnaround now, you're not welcome anymore. We will survive."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Much better from Newcastle right at the end of the first half. It just goes to show, Newcastle have players who can hurt Liverpool even if they are playing poorly."

HALF-TIME

Liverpool probably pleased to hear the whistle sound.

CLOSE!

Mehdi Abeid won't want to see that again. Moussa Sissoko pulls the ball back to him inside the penalty area but he fires the ball horribly over.

GREAT SAVE!

Out of nothing, Newcastle are almost level. Daryl Janmaat's dinked pass finds Ayoze Perez and his header from 16 yards is parried away by Simon Mignolet at full stretch. So close.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Newcastle cannot be worse in the second half. The manager has to say something and make changes, but if they up their work-rate and effort they do have skilful players who can create chances and cause Liverpool problems, no question."

AP

Newcastle are looking a tad bit more dangerous and Liverpool could yet regret not making more of the 62.2 % possession they have had.

Liverpool get a free kick out wide on the right. It will be swung into the penalty area... and is completely wasted as Phillipe Coutinho lazily walks into an offside position.

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Reuters

Zim: I can't decide whether Liverpool are making Newcastle look bad, or they are making us look good.

Javel Bleach: Liverpool need to find out how to turn clear domination into goals. Sometimes they're just getting away with a result, sometimes not.

Kaushik Gorai: He's not a Steven Gerrard replacement, but Henderson is starting to become a classy player. What passes. Showing real captaincy.

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Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

AFP

"There did look to be contact in the Liverpool box, but no Newcastle players appealed, at least at that moment. They crowded the referee afterwards, and often referees can react to players' instant reactions to incidents. That was a foul - Lovren went to hit the ball, he missed and he kicked Perez. That was a penalty."

PENALTY APPEAL

Ayoze Perez beats a couple of Liverpool defenders on the edge of the penalty area before going down inside under the challenge of Dejan Lovren. The defender swings wildly at the ball, misses it and Perez has been harshly done by there. Penalty for me.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"I almost feel sorry for John Carver. The players look like they are not working for their manager. Who has made a tackle, who has closed Liverpool down? The least you can do is put yourself about a bit.

"It seems a token effort for Newcastle, which is a horrible thing to have to say. Are they giving everything? It doesn't necessarily look like it this evening."

GREAT SAVE!

Brilliant from Newcastle stopper Tim Krul as he dives to his left to punch away Lucas's header from close range. The flag is up for offside anyway - so Krul may as well have let it in.

I'll bet Phillipe Coutinho cuts some moves on a dance floor. The Brazilian wiggles his hips, drops his shoulder, waves his feet and almost gets a chance to double the lead. He beats a couple of Newcastle defenders on the edge of the penalty area but his shot is blocked.

Getty Images

Liverpool are pretty sloppy at times themselves but - with Newcastle's current tame efforts - it really isn't costing them. Take away the crowd and you would think we are watching a reserve match.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

Getty Images

"I've been surprised by Newcastle. If I was John Carver I'd have told Newcastle not to play football in their own half but instead to stick the ball in behind Liverpool's defence. But instead they have allowed Liverpool to come back into this and now they are completely dominant. This is like a Liverpool training session."

You can see why Newcastle have lost four league matches on the trot. Liverpool are being given the freedom of Anfield to play their passes. Where's the blood and thunder stuff from the visitors?

That's better. Daryl Janmaat wins the ball inside Liverpool's half, feeds Gabriel Obertan and his cross falls to Mehdi Abeid on the edge of the penalty area. The Newcastle man hits his shot sweetly but it is straight at goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, who gathers.

That fooled everyone. Rather than shooting, Jordan Henderson plays the ball to Phillipe Coutinho and his shot is charged down.

PA

Jordan Ibe is hacked down by Mike Williamson. Free-kick 25 yards from goal. Chance...

Philippe Coutinho again twists and turns before splitting Newcastle's defence with a pass to Raheem Sterling.

The forward is in acres of space but can't control his cross and Tim Krul gratefully gathers.

Brilliant from Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian skins the cumbersome Jack Colback inside the area, steps past Mike Williamson's dangled foot, but then crosses low past everyone.

Liverpool are in total control.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Ryan Taylor is having a bit of a 'mare at the moment. He doesn't know whether to come and stick close to Raheem Sterling or drop off. He's constantly being caught in two minds and keeps needing to be bailed out by Jack Colback."

A rare attack by Newcastle but Ayoze Perez's cross from the left is over the head of Gabriel Obertan and Liverpool break at pace. Raheem Sterling is just about stopped but the visitors - Ryan Taylor in particular - have no clue how to cope with him.

Vote results

Reuters

We asked whether you thought Raheem Sterling would be a Liverpool player next season.

Many thanks to all of you who voted - a tight run thing - 47.9% of you think he will be at Anfield come the start of the next campaign, 43.3% said no and 8.9% of you were undecided.

The Kop will hope you are right.

BBC commentator Guy Mowbray

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"He may have been pictured this week with a shisha pipe, Raheem Sterling, but he wasn't out of puff when he scored that!"

Raheem Sterling doesn't seem to be bothered by the current speculation about his future. He is enjoying himself out there - Newcastle, not so much.

Moussa Sissoko shows his frustration as he hacks the ball into the crowd and straight into the face of a steward. He apologises.

Liverpool are just showing off now. Some beautiful one-touch passing around some bemused Newcastle defenders. It all comes to nothing but Philippe Coutinho is almost in after another through ball. This time, Mike Williamson just about recovers and clears.

Reuters

The long ball is causing Newcastle all sorts of problems. Suddenly the visitors look as though they are going to concede every time Liverpool attack.

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Tom Bielich: If you can do that every week, Sterling, you might get a song!

Henri Colens: Who needs a song? Great strike from Sterling.

Conor McMeekin: Newcastle pathetic at the back...

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This could be a long evening for Newcastle now. The Magpies had started quite promisingly but, if you defend like that, you are always going to be in trouble.

Gabriel Obertan was like a waxwork as Raheem Sterling waltzed past him. It could be worse as an unmarked Alberto Moreno has a shot saved by Tim Krul.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"The first moment of quality in this game. It was a long, driven, diagonal ball from Henderson out to Sterling on the wing. A fantastic first touch, the full-back slips over and allows Sterling to come inside onto his right foot and get his shot away.

"He did incredibly well to dig that ball out from under his feet and dink it into the far corner. That is why he is so valuable.

"Newcastle had started brightly, but a killer blow."

GOAL

AFP

'He scores when he wants, he scores when he wants. Raheem Sterling - he scores when he wants'. How's that for a song Raheem?

The forward collects Jordan Henderson's diagonal pass, cuts inside and curls the ball into the far corner from inside the penalty area. Lovely finish.

So much for that sloppy start.

Liverpool again give the ball away, this time Jordan Ibe is the guilty culprit. Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa on their minds perhaps?

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"I think Newcastle will actually get something this evening, as long as they don't concede early on. If they reach the half-hour mark strongly then I think they could cause an upset.

"It's not just the fact that I expect them to react to their recent poor form, but I'm also looking at that Liverpool side. It is fairly average, in terms of Liverpool's standards. There are few players who really frighten you, who you would be really scared to face. I think there is an opportunity here for Newcastle."

A few groans already from the home fans as Newcastle break again all too easily. The visiting players are stronger in the tackle early on and look as though they could cause Liverpool some real problems.

Reuters

Liverpool have lost their last two league games - defeats to Mancester United and Arsenal - and know they need to stop the rot.

Raheem Sterling is brushed off the ball by Mike Williamson down the left as Newcastle break and Remy Cabella has a shot deflected wide for a corner.

They couldn't could they? No, the corner is headed clear but the visitors remain on the attack.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Sturridge and Sterling are not as important to Liverpool as Coutinho. He would be so difficult to replace. He's playing in the false nine position tonight with Sterling on one side and Ibe on the other. There's nobody straight down the centre, and I wonder how the Newcastle defence will handle that?"

A slow start as both sets of players look to find their feet. Some patient passing from Liverpool though as Newcastle struggle to get out of their half.

Guy Mowbray

BBC Match of the Day commentator

"After back-to-back Premier League defeats, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has insisted the problem is his misfiring forwards - rather than his tactics.

"The Reds' lack of cutting edge looks increasingly likely to cost them a top-four spot, but the chance of FA Cup success is at least a potential silver lining for Rodgers.

"The picture is bleaker for Newcastle counterpart John Carver, who admitted defeat in the Wear-Tyne derby was one of the "darkest days" of his career and whose audition for the manager's job has been handicapped by a terrible run of injuries and suspensions."

Newcastle formation

Opta

Liverpool formation

Opta

Vote closed

We asked whether you think Raheem Sterling will still be a Liverpool player next season. The vote is now closed.

Thanks to all who voted and we will publish the results shortly.

KICK-OFF

Game on.

LINE-UPS

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Johnson, Can, Lovren, Moreno, Allen, Lucas, Henderson, Ibe, Coutinho, Sterling

Newcastle XI: Krul, R.Taylor, Janmaat, Williamson, Colback, Anita, Abeid, Sissoko, Cabella, Obertan, Perez.

AFP

Minute silence impeccably observed as you would expect. You can sense the emotion.

Hillsborough anniversary

There will be a minute's silence to mark the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster, which happened on 15 April 1989.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

AP

Slowbear: Nirvana: "Don't be stupid! Sack your agent! Stay at Anfield! Entertain us!"

Craig Houlden: "He needs a dollar, dollar. A dollar's what Raheem needs."

Adam Sidat: Michael Jackson: "Beat it, beat it. If you want more money, beat it."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

There a few better scenes than a packed Anfield on a night game. Fans blasting out "You'll Never Walk Alone", red scarves raised above their heads and the whiff of expectancy in the air. Lovely stuff.

The teams are in the tunnel. Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet whispers in Tim Krul's ear and the latter gives a knowing nod. A few hand slaps around the place before they make their way out. The expected roar greets them.

Spot the Ball

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Fancy a bit more fun before the main event gets under way?

Why not have a go at Match of the Day kickabout's Spot the Ball Game here.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

BBC Sport producer Juliette Ferrington tweets commentator Guy Mowbray's notes ahead of kick-off:

juliette_grace

City's crisis

If Liverpool are to sneak into the top four this season, it looks like it would be at the expense of champions Manchester City.

Sunday's humiliating derby defeat to Manchester United leaves the Red Devils well clear in third and Manuel Pellegrini's staring down the barrel of a crisis.

You can read Phil McNulty's take on who could leave City in the summer.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

BBC

Raheem Sterling wants the Kop to sing him a new song, does he? Well, you've been supplying Liverpool's supporters with some suggestions:

Joe Calverley: "In the summertime, when Barca are in line, I'll be packing my bags, saying 'the money is mine'."

Rob: "Wish me luck as you wave me goodbye. Cheerio, here we go. On my way."

Jon Garbett: "I know a song that'll get on your nerves". Sterling just needs to just get on with playing football. A song? Honestly!

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Windies legend Sir Viv's a Red

Empics

Sir Viv Richards, one of the great Test batsmen, has just revealed on BBC Test Match Special that he is a Liverpool supporter:

"Liverpool had a bad time against Arsenal, and have been losing recently. They haven't been on the best of runs, but tonight is an opportunity to set things straight."

He's sharing a commentary box in Antigua with former England spin bowler Graeme Swann who, of course, follows Newcastle. Could be a tense couple of hours, regardless of events in Antigua.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Daniel Sturridge is a big, big miss. He has only scored five times this season. Liverpool wanted him to be their Luis Suarez replacement. Without him, there is no out-and-out striker in that side."

"We want to get on the front foot."

Newcastle United

First-team coach John Carver: "The first few days after the derby were tough but we have to focus on this game and try and bounce back.

"The changes we have made are a reaction to that and having Jack Colback in midfield is a big positive for us. We are not going to come here just to defend. We want to get on the front foot."

"Still a lot to play for"

Liverpool

Manager Brendan Rodgers: "There are still a lot of points - 21 - to play for and we still have plenty of work to do. Jordon Ibe is super-quick with great technique and made a big difference when we brought him back from his loan at Derby.

"He is a naturally fit boy and has been good in training so I had no qualms about putting him straight back in.

"Daniel Sturridge picked up an injury against Blackburn and is unavailable fitness wise. We will have to see how he gets on ahead of the weekend's FA Cup semi-final."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

BBC

Raheem Sterling's request for a new song from Liverpool supporters has got you going:

Kevin Booth: "The whinger takes it all..."

Terry Mahoney: "Buy, buy some American Pie? Or go to the Levy, but if the Levy is dry? Guess it's Liverpool 'til I die, Liverpool 'til I die."

Andrew Neill: Meat Loaf: "Like Luis Suarez I'll be gone when the summer comes, when the season's over Like Luis Suarez I'll be gone, gone, gone."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Pardew's Palace joy

BBC

Ask Newcastle United fans if they would have former boss Alan Pardew back and most would answer with a resounding 'no'.

But, since becoming Crystal Palace boss in January, he has guided the Eagles well clear of the bottom three with 10 wins from 15 matches in all competitions.

Pardew for manager of the season?

Carver is still hurting

Getty Images

One man not short of passion for Newcastle United is interim boss John Carver.

The 50-year-old, originally placed in caretaker charge when Alan Pardew departed for Crystal Palace in the new year, fears his side's 1-0 defeat by Sunderland will define his reign at St James' Park.

He said: "It will define my spell in charge. It's not nice so I will suffer for a few weeks, months, possibly years."

It was Newcastle's fifth straight Tyne-Wear derby defeat. Ouch.

Ashley out?

Life as a Newcastle fan isn't a happy one at the moment.

Some supporters have launched a campaign calling on fans to boycott the Tottenham home game on 19 April and take part in protests in to try and force out owner Mike Ashley.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

PA

Raheem Sterling has asked the Liverpool fans to sing him a new personalised song. And you lot have hopped on our hashtags with your, ahem, "helpful" suggestions:

Janine Suzanne: "So long, farewell, auf wiedersehen Raheem."

Jack Alhadeff: "I've got 99 problems but finding a new club ain't one."

Tony ‏Longfellow: "l'm leaving, on a midnight train to Barca..."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Heading north?

If the #songforraheem is not working for you perhaps you should check out our coverage of St. Mirren v Ross County in the Scottish Premiership.

It's a proverbial must-win game for St Mirren in Paisley tonight as the Scottish Premiership's bottom side entertain relegation rivals Ross County.

The Buddies are 10 points adrift of Motherwell with six games remaining and have won once in seven games. County are third bottom, but they are the form team in the top flight - better than leaders Celtic - and are unbeaten in eight games, winning seven. A defeat for St Mirren tonight and the best they can do is finish in second bottom, where they would face a play-off against a team from the Championship.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"Sometimes, as with John Carver, it's hard to go from being a coach and the players' confidant to become the man making the harsh decisions for the benefit of the team.

"With the club in the position they are in, these Newcastle players know Carver won't be in charge next season. They could well have eased off under him, which is wrong but it happens. And ease off in this division and you'll start losing every week."

Top four is key for Liverpool

PA

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is under no illusions as to how important a top-four finish is this campaign.

Following their 4-1 defeat at Arsenal last time out in the league, he said: "Liverpool is a phenomenal club players want to play for, but players want to play at the top level," said Rodgers.

"If you are not in the Champions League it makes it difficult for you."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

BBC

I much prefer it when you lot weave your own wonderful lyrics. Starting with an Only Fools belter:

Robin Smith: "Stick a pony in me pocket, fetch the suitcase from the van. I f you want the best 'uns then don't ask questions - Brendan, I'm your man."

Robin: "You're so vain, you think this club is about you..."

Matt Wilkinson: To the tune of No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley: "No money? Bye bye. No money, bye bye..."

Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Team news

Striker Daniel Sturridge is out of Liverpool's matchday squad, having reportedly picked up an injury during the week. Emre Can returns from suspension in central defence while Jordon Ibe returns after six weeks out with a knee injury. He is likely to will fill in midfield as Raheem Sterling pushes on to take up Sturridge's central striking role.

Newcastle make three changes from the side that lost the derby to Sunderland last weekend. In comes Gabriel Obertan for Sammy Ameobi in attack with Mehdi Abeid and Vurnon Anita replacing Yoan Gouffran and Jonas Gutierrez.

Liverpool XI: Mignolet, Johnson, Can, Lovren, Moreno, Allen, Lucas, Henderson, Ibe, Coutinho, Sterling

Newcastle XI: Krul, R.Taylor, Janmaat, Williamson, Colback, Anita, Abeid, Sissoko, Cabella, Obertan, Perez.

Former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills

at Anfield for 5 live Sport

"I look at Liverpool's defence and the only player in any sort of form is Emre Can. Johnson has been in-and-out all season and is nowhere near where he used to be. Lovren's confidence must be shattered at the moment. And have you seen some of Moreno's defending recently?

"Newcastle are in horrendous form themselves, but sometimes playing away from home you're under a little less pressure and Newcastle could cause the Liverpool back line some problems."

A year to forget so far

BBC

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

BBC

Every chance #SongForRaheem will soon start trending...

Dan Keane: "Money money money, must be funny, in Raheem's world."

Michael Grav: "Money cant buy me love..."

Richard Ellis: Has to be "Leaving on a jet plane"?

Two themes emerging. Cash and modes of transport. Keep 'em coming! Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Life without Suarez

BBC

No prizes for seeing part of Liverpool's problem this season. The Reds had scored 84 league goals at this stage last season, 39 more than they have currently.

Luis Suarez's absence probably has a large part to do with that...

Sturridge injured

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers confirms striker Daniel Sturridge picked up an injury in the FA Cup quarter-final win over Blackburn Rovers and isn't sure if he will be available for the weekend's semi-final.

The Reds could certainly do with him...

Join the debate at #bbcfootball and #SongForRaheem

AP

You're better lyricists than Sir Paul McCartney, you lot!

Ryan Lloyd: "He signs when he wants! He signs when he wants! Raheem Sterling, he signs when he wants!"

Jamie Smith: Jessie J, Price Tag. "It's all about the money, money, money..."

James Swift: "Mo money, mo problems." Notorious B.I.G.

Blend of lyrics and song titles there. Creative. Like it. Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Goals, goals, goals

Getty Images

One thing that is normally guaranteed in this fixture is goals.

We have seen 130 between the two teams in Premier League meetings, with not a single goalless draw.

The last stalemate these sides produced was 41 years ago - and who could forget Liverpool's 4-3 win back in 1996 that helped crush Newcastle's title dreams.

What Newcastle fans would give for a Faustino Asprilla, David Ginola and Les Ferdinand now though...

Team news - Sturridge out for Liverpool

Team news is in and Daniel Sturridge is not in the Liverpool squad - presumably because of injury. Jordan Ibe comes straight into the side after six weeks out with injury and Raheem Sterling is in attack.

BBC Radio 5 live

It's a feast of football on the nation's home of live sport - BBC Radio 5 live.

5 live Sport kicks in from 19:00 GMT with The Monday Night Club, with Kelly Cates presenting football debate and build-up to Liverpool v Newcastle.

Then from 20:00 GMT it's live Premier League commentary on Liverpool v Newcastle, in the company of commentator Guy Mowbray and former Man City and England full-back Danny Mills.

And straight after it's the Football Social from 22:00 GMT, where you get the chance to comment on tonight's action.

Tune into 5 live at the top of this page, via the BBC Sport and BBC iPlayer Radio apps, on digital television and radio or on 909 and 693 MW.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Getty Images

We're after your songs for Raheem Sterling, after he pleaded for a ditty from the Kop.

Jay: So Sterling wants £150,000/week AND a song? The salaries of footballers are already crazy and now these extra demands...!

Steven F. Galloway: (To Jolene tune) "Raheem, Raheem, Raheem Raheeeeem, don't go to Arsenal just because you can."

Stephen Want: A song for Raheem Sterling? "Should I stay or should I go?"

Very strong start that, folks. Use #bbcfootball, or if you fancy #SongForRaheem on Twitter.

Things can only get better

BBC

Newcastle United would take Liverpool's recent travails in a heartbeat though.

The Magpies have lost four Premier League matches in a row, just been beaten by local rivals Sunderland and have only collected nine points in 2015.

They are nine points clear of the bottom three but Newcastle fans won't be counting their chickens just yet.

Fight for Europe

BBC

Liverpool's FA Cup quarter-final win over Blackburn Rovers last week means Steven Gerrard could still earn a fairytale finish - but it won't be by winning that elusive title.

A glance at the top six shows the size of the task Liverpool have to even finish in the Champions League qualifying spots - currently seven points away from that.

A win this evening will move them back into the Europa League spot... Is that a good thing?

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Daily Mail reporter Ian Ladyman: Sturridge missing from #LFC line-up tonight due to injury. A familiar statement, that one.

Sturridge to miss out?

There are whispers from various media sources that Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge will miss tonight's match due to another injury. Team news will be through in about 10 minutes.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

It is perhaps interesting timing for Raheem Sterling to this week announce he wants the Kop to dedicate a song to him.

But that is just what he has done, telling the Sunday Times magazine: "My ambition is to have my own song from the Kop. Last season I loved the song for Luis Suarez — Gerrard and Coutinho have good ones too."

I wonder if they will grant his wish this evening? Perhaps you can give Liverpool fans a helping hand? Send in your song suggestions for Sterling to #bbcfootball or text 81111 (UK users only). Keep them clean of course.

But will they even have time to get a song going for him? Will be at the club beyond the summer? Let us know via the above channels and vote on this page.

Sterling stuff

Getty Images

Raheem Sterling has been a much-talked about young man in recent weeks hasn't he? Well I'm afraid here comes some more chat about the England man.

The 20-year-old will face the Kop for the first time since telling the BBC he has turned down a £100,000 a week contract.

The forward is sitting tight until holding talks about his future in the summer - but what sort of reaction will he get?

He has already been lightly heckled during a kit unveiling last week.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

LFC

"Anfield's ready," say Liverpool on social media. Good thing too...

Good evening and welcome to a Premier League encounter that always sets the pulses racing.

Liverpool v Newcastle, it just smells of goals, drama and memories doesn't it?

Forget the past though this is big in the present.

Liverpool still have a sniff of top four, while Newcastle aren't completely safe from relegation. Live text commentary all the way.

The dream is over

A year on and Liverpool will certainly feel as though they have woken up from any dream.

As we all know - with Steve Gerrard's trip and all that - they didn't go on to win the title and now look as though Champions League football will evade them for next season.

Luis Suarez has long since gone, Raheem Sterling might be on his way and Kop darling Gerrard is off to finish his career in the United States.

Oh, and bitter rivals Manchester United have refound their mojo....

'We go again'

Getty Images

It was supposed to be the day Liverpool emerged from the shadows of the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal.

It was the moment they awoke from their slumbers to take a massive step towards ending their 25-year wait for a top-flight title.

Yes - exactly a year ago today, Liverpool beat Manchester City 3-2 at an electric Anfield to leave themselves just four wins from winning the Premier League.

They didn't go again...