Newcastle United will entertain Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park this Saturday as they hope to secure maximum points in front of their home supporters. The Magpies suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss away at Anfield after conceding an injury-time goal which could drain their confidence a bit ahead of this game.
Eddie Howe is expected to opt for a 3-4-3 formation and could make some changes to his first XI for this home game. Chris Wood and Sven Botman will both play from the start as both Jamaal Lascelles and Alexander Isak are major doubts for this game.
3-4-3 Newcastle United Predicted Lineup To Face Crystal Palace
Defence
Nick Pope will once again function in goal for the Magpies after conceding a couple of goals versus the Reds in his last league outing. Howe could opt for a back three of Fabian Schar, Sven Botman and Dan Burn as they try to defend their penalty area collectively and secure a clean sheet at St. James’ Park this weekend.
As mentioned earlier, Jamaal Lascelles is a significant concern for this match. However, Javier Manquillo will be available for selection on the bench as he offers cover for the defensive positions.
Midfield
Joelinton and Sean Longstaff will operate as the holding midfielders as they try to dominate the game at the centre of the park. Both of them will also be given the responsibility to feed some decent through balls to the front players.
Matt Targett will fill in as a left wing-back while Jacob Murphy hopes to catch the eye from the right flank.
Bruno Guimaraes is unlikely to be risked in this game as he is still recovering from a thigh injury. However, Elliot Anderson will have to be content with a place on the bench as he waits for his chance to impress in the second half if needed.
Attack
Ryan Fraser produced an impressive display at Anfield and is expected to keep his spot on the left wing. Miguel Almiron will try to put his pace to good use on the right flank.
Chris Wood will operate as Newcastle’s main centre-forward down the middle. He would have to pose a threat from indirect set-pieces in the injury absence of Alexander Isak, who has got a dead leg. The Swedish talent might find himself on Howe’s bench if he can pass a late fitness test ahead of this league clash at Tyneside.
