Newcastle United will entertain Tottenham Hotspur at St. James’ Park on Sunday afternoon as they try to grind out a result at home so that they can steer away from the dreaded drop zone in the Premier League table. The Magpies suffered a dismal 3-0 loss at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion last month, which has drained their confidence significantly ahead of this exciting league weekend’s showdown versus Spurs.
Steve Bruce will probably opt for a 4-1-2-1-2 formation but is sweating on the fitness of his star striker Callum Wilson, who is a major doubt for his game. There are also some concerns over Martin Dúbravka’s availability as he is still recovering from illness.
4-1-2-1-2 Newcastle United Predicted Lineup To Face Tottenham Hotspur
Defence
Dubravka will operate in between the sticks for the Magpies if he can make himself available for this game. Ciaran Clark will once again partner up with Jamaal Lascelles at the heart of the Newcastle defence as they try their best to keep Tottenham’s Harry Kane quiet during the 90 minutes.
Javier Manquillo could get the nod to start at right-back while Paul Dummett looks to impress on the other flank as the left-back. Bruce will ask both his full-backs to maintain a solid defensive shape at the back so that they can stop the Spurs wide players from getting in behind them out on the flanks.
Federico Fernandez will have to be content with a spot on the bench as he offers cover for the central defensive positions.
Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey will function as the holding midfielder as he looks to make life difficult for the Tottenham attackers. He will also have to distribute the ball if the Magpies are to have any chance of getting a positive result this weekend. Both Jeff Hendrick and Joe Willock will play just ahead of the ex-Liverpool midfielder as they look to go box to box with their running.
Miguel Almiron will probably get a chance to catch the eye from the number ten position as he looks to create some decent chances for others around him. He will also have to track back and defend inside his half at times if the Magpies are to stop Spurs from emerging victorious on Sunday.
Attack
Ryan Fraser could get the opportunity to lead the line alongside Callum Wilson up top if the English marksman can pass a late fitness test. Dwight Gayle and Andy Carroll will be available for selection on Bruce’s bench but could come on to make an impact in the latter stages of the game if required.
