Premier League 2018-19: 3 reasons behind Liverpool's 4-0 win over Newcastle United

#1 Liverpool's midfield in full control

Shaqiri was lively against the Magpies.

Jurgen Klopp changed his midfield three from the game against Wolves which saw Xherdan Shaqiri and Georginio Wijnaldum reinstated to the starting XI in place of Naby Keita and Fabinho. Jordan Henderson retained his place and played as the number six against the Magpies.

The midfield trio looked lively from the word go and created a number of opportunities for the front three to score from. They stuck to their task of remaining disciplined in the middle, and did not allow the likes of Diame and Hayden to dominate them physically.

Henderson remained composed in the number six position throughout the game and kept things simple in the middle of the park. The skipper ended the game with a pass accuracy rate of 88% (54 passes in the opposition half compared to 31 passes in his own half) and recovered possession on seven occasions.

Wijnaldum used his vast expanse of energy against his former employers and provided the perfect link between defence and attack. The Dutch international ended with a pass success rate of 97%, winning four duels and recovering possession thrice before being hauled shortly after the hour mark.

Shaqiri, being his usual self, took on Newcastle's defenders at will and acted as the creative outlet for Klopp's side. He rounded off an impressive display by scoring Liverpool's third goal of the evening and his sixth of the season.

In general, it was a fantastic outing for Liverpool's midfield who played a massive role in Liverpool's Boxing Day win over a beleaguered Newcastle.