It’s a new dawn at Newcastle United following the Saudi-based takeover. They spent heftily in winter and a couple of decent results of late saw them climbing up the league ladder. However, the Magpies are still way down in the standings and the Tuesday night tie against Everton remains crucial given their dismal run of form so far this season.
The Toffees, too, have been disastrous under Rafael Benitez and are aiming for a turnaround following the appointment of Frank Lampard as the new Goodison boss. It won’t be a stroll in the park for Everton at St James’ Park, but the thumping FA Cup victory over Brentford must boost their confidence ahead of locking horns in this midweek fixture.
Predicted 4-3-3 Newcastle United Lineup To Face Everton
Defence
Newcastle have strengthened themselves across the pitch but are relying on Martin Dúbravka between the sticks. The Slovak custodian had fitness woes in the recent past, but he is back to his best again since regaining the ‘number 1’ status.
The signing of Kieran Trippier is a statement of intent from the club management. The Three Lions international would keep on causing menace down the right-hand flank with his overlapping runs, crosses and set-piece attributes, also the towering presence of Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar in deep defence might frustrate the visitors. Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie picked up injuries before the break and Eddie Howe might deploy their deadline day recruit Dan Burn down the left. Predominantly a centre-half, the versatile former Brighton & Hove Albion star is also capable of operating as a fullback.
Midfield
Joelinton has been a revelation in central midfield, but a groin injury forced him to leave the pitch early against Leeds. But he is in line to return for the Everton game, whereas exciting January signing Bruno Guimarães might grab his debut as the deep-lying playmaker. Jonjo Shelvey should keep his place given his experience and game-changing traits. The likes of Sean Longstaff, Joe Willock and Jeff Hendrick must wait and fight for first-team minutes.
Attack
The Magpies had to bring in a new ‘number 9’ due to Callum Wilson’s persistent injury problems. They now have Chris Wood in their side and the New Zealand international must spearhead the attack as the targetman forward. Allan Saint-Maximin has been impressive down the left, but the Frenchman must do better in terms of decision-making. Ryan Fraser is expected to retain his place down the right ahead of Miguel Almiron.
