NEWCASTLE v LIVERPOOL 8PM, SKY SPORTS

ARNE SLOT has shared texts with only one fellow Premier League manager — Eddie Howe.

- By Chris McKenna

The Dutchman respects his rival so much he has backed Howe to one day become England head coach.

But whether or not the Newcastle head coach would be so receptive to messages at the moment from his Liverpool counterpart may be discovered this evening when they meet at St James’ Park.

A lot has happened between the clubs since Slot and Howe exchanged pleasantries over messages following Newcastle’s Carabao Cup victory against the Reds at Wembley in March.

Most obviously Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak, the Magpies front man who has gone on strike to force a move to Anfield.

When asked if this summer’s events have damaged relations between the clubs, Slot said: “I don’t know.

“The only manager I’ve ever texted [in the Premier League] was Eddie Howe. In Holland I texted with a few more, but after the League Cup final we did exchange a few messages.

“If I see him I will be the same as I was last year, and I expect nothing different from him as well. On a higher level, I have no clue. For me it’s still the same relationship with him.”

Liverpool will arrive in the North East tonight as mighty villains.