Rafa Benitez will make an emotional return to his former club Liverpool this Saturday, but it won't be all smiles - he will be hoping that his Newcastle United side can take all three points. 

The Tynesiders have collected four points from their last two games and their now seems to be a renewed sense of belief in the Spaniard's side. 

With only four games left, this trip to Anfield is an important one for Newcastle if they are to survive the drop. 

Background

There's a rich history between these two sides, but all that goes out the window on Saturday with both sides in differing positions. 

Newcastle would love three points to try and get them out of their relegation predicament, but Liverpool may well play an under-strength side with a Europa League semi-final to think about midweek. 

Both sides have been in pretty contrasting form recently as well. 

Newcastle have only won one of their last five games in the Premier League, but recent form has their side buoyed. 

Liverpool have been in a fantastic run of form, they haven't lost in their last six games, so they will be going into this one full of confidence.

Team news

Newcastle defender Kevin Mbabu will make a return to the squad after recovering from injury, skipper Fabricio Coloccini though is still out with a calf injury and Daryl Janmaat misses out too. Goalkeepers Tim Krul and Rob Elliot both struggle on the sidelines with knee injuries, while Steven Taylor is still no closer to a return.

Liverpool will be without striker Divock Origi as he will miss several games after suffering ankle ligament damage against Everton midweek - either Daniel Sturridge or Roberto Firmino will be chosen for Saturday. Christian Benteke though will not be available as he still recovers from a knee injury.  

Players to watch

Andros Townsend - Since he joined in January Townsend has been one of few who has shown that passion and commitment to the cause. Now that Benitez has come in he's thrived under his reign. He has been one of the shining lights in recent games - so this Saturday could see Townsend bag continue his goal-scoring tally.

Daniel Sturridge - It's been a pretty miserable season for Sturridge, the majority of it being hampered by injury. The Englishman though has scored in numerous substitue appearances recently, so we could see Klopp stick with him this Saturday.