Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Johnny Heitinga will take charge of Liverpool against Newcastle after being promoted to Arne Slot's stand-in(Image: Getty)

Liverpool will face Newcastle with Johnny Heitinga in charge as the temporary replacement for Arne Slot.

Heitinga will look to extend Liverpool's Premier League lead after Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were both handed two-match suspensions following the controversy that ensued after the recent Merseyside derby draw with Everton.

The Dutch manager and his deputy were shown red after confronting referee Michael Oliver at Goodison Park, where Everton managed a last-second goal to secure a draw.



This means assistant first-team coach and ex-Toffee Heitinga will be thrust into the hot seat as Liverpool aim to build on Sunday's 2-0 victory over Manchester City.

The Reds currently sit 11 points clear at the top of the table, but Wednesday's match against Newcastle will be a major test of their title credentials.

Here, the Liverpool Echo has delved into the background of a man who could either emerge a hero or villain, depending on how his temporary tenure pans out.

Former Netherlands international Heitinga needed some time to get used to the retired lifestyle (Image: Getty Images)

Former Ajax star Heitinga discussed the challenges of adjusting to life after hanging up his boots.

Many retired professionals struggle with boredom in retirement, but one thing impacted Heitinga more than the rest - the difference in earnings.

Speaking candidly about financial adjustments, the 87-times capped Netherlands international once discussed his family's difficulties adapting.

Zenden was at the tail end of his international career when a nascent Heitinga spied an opportunity with his sister, Charlotte Sophie.

"It's funny how our careers went, when you look at our relationship today," Zenden once told Ladbrokes Fanzone.
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.