Newcastle United earned a hard-fought draw against Premier League holders Manchester City recently which would have made Steve Bruce delighted. Given the furore his arrival was met with after the departure of Rafael Benitez, the Magpies have done relatively well as they sit on the 14th spot on the table. Next up, they will have a tough assignment as the Magpies will travel to Bramall Lane to take on the high flyers, Sheffield United.
Chris Wilder has built his team on a strong defence, but they can also push and press high up the pitch. The Blades are currently 7th on the table, and they would look to continue their good run in midweek. Sheffield are currently on a seven-game unbeaten run albeit they have drawn five of those matches. Hence, we could be in for a cagey affair with two strong defensive units going head to head with each other.
Team News: Allan Saint-Maximin had to go off against the Citizens in the latter stages of the game, but he will be expected to recover for this encounter. Striker Andy Carroll is a doubt, and so is defender Florian Lejeune. Matt Ritchie and Jamaal Lascelles are not in contention to feature in this encounter.
Newcastle United Predicted Lineup vs Sheffield United
Formation (5-4-1)
Defence
Martin Dubravka is set to continue in goal for the Tyneside outfit. Ciaran Clark could feature in the centre of the back three. On his right, Fabian Schar might come into the lineup to replace Federico Fernandez from the last game. Fernandez might have to shift on the left of Clark, and Paul Dummett could miss out.
Jetro Willems has been a brilliant signing so far, so he will continue to play in the wingback role down the left flank. Former Liverpool defender Javier Manquillo is expected to keep his place in the right wing-back position.
Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey scored the all-important equaliser against City, and he has been in good form of late. He should continue in the middle. Both the Longstaff brothers are now available, but Bruce might continue with Isaac Hayden as the midfield partner to Shelvey.
Every time Allan Saint-Maximin gets on the ball, he creates a buzz among the Magpies faithful. Even though he isn’t getting goals, he is a crucial part of this team, and he should recover from his minor injury to start from the left. Miguel Almiron is also showing some positive signs, and he is expected to feature from the right flank.
Attack
Big money signing Joelinton is likely to lead the line, and Dwight Gayle might have to be content with a place on the bench again.
