Newcastle United have to settle things quickly if they want to go back to the Premier League next season. The Magpies will face the challenge of Leeds United in the next match and whoever wins this will edge closer towards a promotion to the English top tier.
A win for the Toons will cement their place in the top two which will get them much closer towards an automatic qualification spot. Newcastle have been enduring a rough patch of games as they surrendered their top spot to Brighton & Hove Albion after losing on two occasions in the last five matches.
They are currently two points adrift of Brighton & Hove Albion and a win in this match would ensure a smooth passage for the remaining games.
A number of changes are expected from Rafa Benitez as this will be a do or die situation for them.
Predicted 4-4-2 Newcastle United Lineup Against Leeds United
Defence
Karl Darlow’s form in the Newcastle goal undoubtedly has given them an upper hand this season. The 26-year-old has been brilliant this term and will make the starting lineup.
Magpies captain Jamaal Lascelles was not at his best in the 2-1 loss against Sheffield Wednesday and he will be very adamant to put up a good show against one of the best-attacking sides of the Championship.
The injury to Ciaran Clark has been a boon in disguise for Chancel Mbemba who will have another chance in the Toons defence to get a shot in.
Vurnon Anita will aim to dismantle the Leeds ranks with his marauding run through the flanks.
Paul Dummett continues to start in the left back position. He is defensively very solid and would come handy in this big match.
Midfield
Benitez will ring in a number of changes in the midfield to grind the best result from this match. Jonjo Shelvey will be handed the charge to lead the midfield.
Mohamed Diame hasn’t been up to the mark will make the way for Isaac Hayden. Shelvey’s pairing with Hayden has been very fruitful for the Championship side and Benitez will take no risk but field his best midfield combination of late.
Attack
Matt Ritchie will try to make merry from the right-hand side. The midfielder is a tough customer to handle and would give Charlie Taylor a run for his money.
Yoan Gouffran will try to help his team by providing the cutting edge from the left side.
With Dwight Gayle injured, Benitez is expected to go into the match with two strikers. Aleksandar Mitrovic will get the call up to the starting lineup. He will be partnered by Daryl Murphy up front.
