Newcastle United are currently rooted in the 19th spot of the league table, and they will host Manchester United at St. James’ Park this weekend. The pressure seems to be mounting on Steve Bruce, and the Magpies will look to get some momentum before they go into the international break.
Manchester United have a dismal record away from home of late, and the Magpies will be confident that they can beat the Manchester giants. The Red Devils were busy midweek as they travelled to Kyocera Stadium to take on AZ Alkmaar where they only managed to secure a goalless draw. Manchester United are currently winless in their last seven away league games, and as Rochdale and Alkmaar showed, they are not a team to be feared of at the moment.
Team News: Isaac Hayden is suspended for this tie after his horrific challenge. Florian Lejeune is still out of contention to be involved in the matchday squad. Matt Ritchie is also expected to miss out. There is some good news for Bruce as he is expected to have Jonjo Shelvey and Dwight Gayle available for selection.
Newcastle United Predicted Lineup Vs Manchester United
Formation (5-4-1)
Defence
Martin Dubravka is going to be an obvious choice to start in goal. The Toon are likely to have a back three of Jamaal Lascelles, Paul Dummett and Fabian Schar. The trio will look to put up a better performance after they were thrashed by Leicester City last time around.
Jetro Willems is expected to be fit for this tie, and he should start at left wing-back. He will look to attack when Newcastle recover possession and use his pace down the left flank. The Swedish international Emil Krafth is likely to start as the right wing-back.
Midfield
With Hayden out, Jonjo Shelvey might be in line to feature in midfield. Sean Longstaff is expected to partner him in the central areas. His brother Matthew Longstaff is also in contention, but he might only make the bench.
Christian Atsu will look to stretch play and use his pace down the left flank. Miguel Almiron hasn’t got going so far, and Bruce will hope that he can create an impact on the attacking front. He should start as the right-winger.
Attack
Bruce will be glad to have Dwight Gayle back available. However, Joelinton is expected to lead the line for the Magpies once again.
