Newcastle United will welcome Watford at St. James’ Park this Saturday afternoon as they look to secure a positive result in front of their home fans. The Magpies suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of Cambridge United in the FA Cup last weekend, so they will be desperate to bounce back and pick up all three points versus the Hornets.
Eddie Howe could set his team up in a 4-4-2 formation and is expected to make some changes to his starting XI for this game. Chris Wood will probably get the nod to lead the charge along with Allan Saint-Maximin up top if he can pass a late fitness test.
4-4-2 Newcastle United Predicted Lineup To Face Watford
Defence
Martin Dubravka will feature in goal for the Magpies after shipping in one goal in his last appearance. Jamaal Lascelles is expected to operate alongside Fabian Schar at the centre of Newcastle’s backline as they try to keep the Watford attackers at bay during the 90 minutes.
Kieran Trippier will retain his spot at right-back while Matt Ritchie looks to give a good account of himself as a makeshift left-back. Howe will ask both his full-backs to pick and choose their moments to join in on the attack so that they can offer enough support to the front players.
Emil Krafth will offer cover for the defensive positions on the bench.
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Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey will resume his partnership with Sean Longstaff at the centre of Howe’s midfield as they focus on winning the 50-50 battles and creating some decent chances in the final third.
Joelinton could get a start as the left-sided wide player while Ryan Fraser hopes to put his pace to good use down the right flank. Both of them will be responsible for stretching the Watford defence, especially on the counter.
Isaac Hayden is unlikely to be risked this weekend but Miguel Almiron will be available for selection on the bench as he waits for his chance to shine in the second half if needed.
Attack
Allan Saint-Maximin will lead the line along with Chris Wood up top. Wood is a slight doubt for this game as he is still recovering from a groin injury. However, we can expect the 30-year-old striker to start if he can pass a late fitness test.
Dwight Gayle will have to be content with a place on the bench and might come on to influence the game in the final quarter of the game if Newcastle are in need of a goal by then.
