Liverpool vs Newcastle United team news: Kevin Mbabu returns, Fabricio Coloccini still out injured

Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has confirmed Kevin Mbabu is back in the squad for the trip to Liverpool. The 21-year-old defender has been sidelined with a thigh injury recently, but could make his return in time for the all-important game at Anfield.

The Spaniard also confirmed midfielders Georginio Wijnaldum and Jonjo Shelvey have reacted well to a return to training, after being named on the bench for their recent draw against Manchester City. On the other hand, defenders Fabricio Coloccini and Daryl Janmaat will both be absent from their crunch clash against Jurgen Klopp's side tomorrow (23 April).

Benitez also insisted he remains confident that he can save the Magpies from relegation, even though they face some tough-looking fixtures between now and the end of the season, including games against Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.

"We must believe," the Newcastle boss said during a pre-match press conference, according to the BBC. "I'm not happy with a start of just two games, we need more. But the intensity and character [we have shown] means that the players believe."

Newcastle are currently 19th in the table, two points adrift of 17th-placed side Norwich City. In addition to Liverpool, the Magpies face Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur in their remaining games.