The promotional battle has started to heat up in the Championship and Newcastle United are one game away from sealing a return to the Premier League provided fellow rivals Huddersfield Town lose points in their next match. The Magpies will host Preston North End in an attempt to bring back the glory days to the St James Park.
A recent drop in form for the Toons saw them lose the top spot to Brighton & Hove Albion who recently became the first team to earn a promotion to the Premier League. Rafa Benitez’s side lost the last game against Reading which dashed their hopes of an immediate promotion to the English top tier. However, things can get back on track as they will be facing a Preston side who haven’t won their last three League games and have not been able to beat the Magpies in this season so far.
Predicted 4-4-1-1 Newcastle United Lineup Against Preston North End
Defence
In the last few games, Karl Darlow hasn’t looked comprehensive as he conceded three goals in the last match against Reading. Benitez would like to get things under control and for that Darlow needs to sharpen his skills.
Chancel Mbemba is expected to make his way into the starting lineup in place of Grant Hanley.
Captain Jamaal Lascelles is certain in the starting lineup and has been the stronghold in the Newcastle team.
Paul Dummett will be the man on the left side of the defence.
DeAndre Yedlin will fill the remaining spot in the defence.
Midfield
Isaac Hayden and Jonjo Shelvey have struck a good partnership in the middle of the pitch in the last few games. Hayden will be the barrier in the midfield to hold Preston players from going further in the attacking third.
Shelvey has been the creative force for Newcastle and will try to start off attacks.
Christian Atsu is likely to have another chance on the left wing. The Chelsea loanee hasn’t made an impact so far and has to perform to convince his boss for making his move permanent.
Matt Ritchie has been a permanent customer on the right wing. He needs to fire if the Magpies are to put a good display in this important match.
Attack
Mohamed Diame will try to combine with the front man. Diame will operate from a further advanced position and will have a more direct impact on the game.
Daryl Murphy will start in the absence of Dwight Gayle. He scored the only goal in the last match.
