Newcastle United have gotten themselves out of the relegation zone for the time being with their brilliant display against Cardiff City in the last Premier League match. The Magpies defeated the Bluebirds by 3-0 and would look to repeat their performance when they take on Watford in their next game in the FA Cup.
However, it would not be an easy outing for the Tyneside club as they take on the Hornets, who have looked in good form so far this season. Javi Gracia’s side would hope to advance to the next round as well, and on paper, they have the advantage over Newcastle United going into this FA Cup clash.
Team News
Newcastle United have quite a few injury worries with Karl Darlow, Jonjo Shelvey and Paul Dummett all ruled out of the next match against Watford. Ki Sung-Yeung, Mohamed Diame and Kenedy are also injured and would be assessed before the game.
Goalkeeper
Martin Dubravka would take his place in goal for Newcastle United against Watford.
Defence
The likes of Fabian Schar, Florian Lejeune and Jamaal Lascelles would start in the heart of the backline for the Magpies. Jamie Sterry would put in a shift from the right side of the defence while Javier Manquillo would return to the team to start in the left back position.
Midfield
Rafa Benitez’s strategy of using four men in the midfield was a hit in their last match against Cardiff City, and he is expected to stick to the same in the FA Cup clash against Watford as well. Matt Ritchie would start alongside Sean Longstaff in the middle of the pitch. In the absence of Kenedy, Christian Atsu would begin on the left-hand side of the midfield. Ayoze Perez, who scored in the last match against Cardiff, would once again put in a shift from the right side of midfield.
Attack
Joselu would lead the line for the Magpies against Watford.
Predicted Formation: 5-4-1
