Newcastle United suffered a humiliating loss at the hands of Watford on Saturday. The talks of a potential takeover and change of ownership behind the scenes haven’t helped their cause as well. Rafa Benitez will be tasked to rally his troops as they prepare to take on West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday night.
The Spanish manager might be tempted to start Alexandre Mitrovic and Dwight Gayle up front with the Magpies struggling to score enough goals this season. The Tyneside club has just managed to score 11 goals in 13 Premier League matches. But they come up against a Baggies team, who are suffering a similar fate in front of goal. So we can expect a match dry on goals but probably high on entertainment.
The recent meetings between the two sides tell us that the match is going to be unpredictable with the better team on the night more likely to come away with the three points. The Baggies snuck a 1-0 victory in their last meeting with the Magpies at the Hawthorns. It remains to be seen whether Rafa Benitez sticks with the 4-4-2 formation or changes it to a 4-5-1 to sure up his midfield.
Predicted 4-4-2 Newcastle United Line-Up Vs West Bromwich Albion
Defence
Rob Elliot is expected to retain his place in goal after conceding three goals on Saturday. The Republic of Ireland international will be shielded by a back four consisting of DeAndre Yedlin at right-back, Ciaran Clark and Florian Lejeune in central defence and ex Liverpool defender, Javier Manquillo at left-back.
Chancel Mbemba has found chances limited at Tyneside but could also be in with a shout to make a start considering how dismal the Magpies have been in defence lately. Paul Dummett and Jamaal Lascelles will miss out on this trip to West Brom due to injuries.
Midfield
Newcastle United will once again be led by their captain, Jonjo Shelvey with Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino expected to partner him in central midfield. Both players will come up against a tireless West Brom midfield trio of Gareth Barry, Jake Livermore and Sam Field.
Matt Richie has been the creative spark for the Magpies in midfield and would be hoping to justify his place in the starting eleven with another strong performance. Jacob Murphy should also make the lineup on the right side of the midfield.
Attack
Each and every one of the Newcastle United forwards has struggled to make a lasting impact in this campaign. Rafael Benitez has a choice of Joselu, Dwight Gayle and Alexandre Mitrovic at his disposal and the Spanish manager is expected to opt for the latter two with Mitrovic’s physical presence being a crucial factor for his selection.
