Newcastle United will look to get out of the relegation zone when they lock horns with fellow strugglers Brighton & Hove Albion at St. James’ Park on Saturday.
The Magpies are coming on the back of a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool in their last game. They are also 18th in the league table, having picked up just four points from five. However, they will have an excellent opportunity to pull things back against a Brighton side, who have only five points in five matches.
Here is how Steve Bruce’s men could line up against the Seagulls this weekend.
Defence
Newcastle United have a host of players out injured, including key defenders Florian Lejeune and Fabian Schar, who is a doubt. We do, however, expect the Swiss international to return to full fitness. That means he could retain his place at the heart of the four-man backline alongside captain Jamaal Lascelles and Paul Dummett.
US international DeAndre Yedlin has been ruled out with a groin injury. He will likely be replaced by new signing Emil Krafth, who could get the nod ahead of Javier Manquillo at right back. Jetro Willems, meanwhile, is a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank, having scored an exceptional goal against Liverpool in the last match.
And finally, Martin Dubravka is set to retain his place in between the sticks. The Slovakian ‘keeper will be looking for his second clean sheet of the campaign, especially against a Brighton side who have scored only five goals this term.
Midfield
Star midfielder Sean Longstaff is still a doubt due to his ankle injury. That means Jonjo Shelvey will once again receive a starting berth in midfield. The ex-Liverpool star will be looking to make an impression, after being overlooked by the previous manager Rafael Benitez.
Shelvey will be partnered by the ever-present figure of Isaac Hayden. The 24-year-old’s work-ethic could be crucial against the likes of Davy Propper and Dale Stephens. Ki Sung-Yong is also an option for Bruce, should he opt for an extra midfielder.
Attack
The Newcastle United attack will be spearheaded by none other than new signing Joelinton. The ex-Hoffenheim striker hasn’t quite been able to replicate his performances in the Premier League yet, scoring only one goal so far.
Nonetheless, he will be partnered by the wide-attacking duo of Miguel Almiron and Christian Atsu, who has already bagged a couple of assists this season.
