Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has admitted he hopes Liverpool are still feeling a little worse for wear following their Premier League trophy celebrations at Anfield earlier in this week.
The Reds finally got their hands on the coveted prize following an impressive 5-3 victory over Chelsea on Wednesday during a special presentation when Kenny Dalglish handed the trophy over to captain Jordan Henderson.
Despite wrapping up the title with seven games to spare, Liverpool had to wait until their final home game of the season before they were allowed to lift the trophy and collect their medals.
Celebratory scenes were broadcast on free-to-air television with supporters still unable to attend the stadium, although players and coaching staff were able to enjoy the occasion with their family in the ground as they lined up on a specially constructed platform on the world famous Kop stand.
Liverpool's season isn't quite over though, as Jurgen Klopp will take his side to St James' Park on Sunday for their final league game of the title winning campaign.
And the Newcastle manager is hoping the Liverpool squad will still be suffering from enjoying their ultimate victory with sore heads and tired legs when the sides clash at the weekend.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Steve Bruce said : "I hope that they've been partying for three nights after they lifted the trophy and I hope there's a few of them who are worse for wear!"
Although Bruce admits that even though some criticism has been placed on the Reds for their post-lockdown performances amid speculation form has dipped since securing the title, they will still be aiming to get yet another three points.
He said: "Knowing their professionalism, I don't think there will be."
Newcastle v Liverpool kicks off at 4pm on Sunday, July 26.
Jurgen Klopp will be hosting his press conference later today and you can keep up to date with live updates from that and all other LFC news, transfer rumours and more right here.
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