Earlier today, Eddie Howe admitted he could “freshen things up” ahead of Newcastle’s trip to Norwich, believing it is vital he has 11 players who are fit and “ready” to “give their best physically.”
With changes on the way as we approach our third game in less than a week, we’ve looked at six players who would be handed rare starts at Carrow Road tomorrow afternoon.
Without further ado, here’s our ones to watch following Howe’s pre-match comments:
Jamaal Lascelles – Howe has praised spoken highly of the skipper, praising his leadership off the field and insisting he’s rarely let him down on the pitch when he’s been called upon. Schar and Burn have formed a brilliant partnership, however the former has been managing a groin injury so could be given a rest here.
Javier Manquillo – This one feels less likely given how well Emil Krafth has been playing, yet the Swede didn’t train much last week due to illness and has went down with cramp in our last two games as a result.
Sean Longstaff – In talks over a new deal and often talked up by Howe, so this could be another chance to show the manager what he can; and a chance for the manager to put some faith in the player himself. With Shelvey and Joelinton looking knackered at the end of Wednesday night’s win, changes in midfield seem certain.
Joe Willock – Was unlucky not to start in midweek after his lively cameo against Leicester created Bruno’s 95th minute winner. His box-to-box energy and ball-carrying ability has been especially effective away from home, so he’s one I can definitely see coming into the side.
Jacob Murphy – With Ryan Fraser injured and our only other fit wingers putting in big efforts just a few nights ago, the 27-year-old could easily come in for Almiron or Saint-Maximin against his former club.
Dwight Gayle – He’s only managed nine minutes of action under Howe, but the NUFC boss said he still had a part to play, praising his leadership, performances in training and describing him as the best finisher he’s ever worked with. Wood looks a bit leggy and Gayle’s energy and movement helped create space for Bruno’s winner last weekend, so I wouldn’t be all that surprised if he gets his first start of the season against Norwich; a side he loves to score against!
The 2 I would rest would be Wood and Joelinton. Both have played a lot of minutes recently. Others have not played THAT much.
Krafth – he was replaced by Trippier then Manquilo
Bruno – he was eased in so hasnt seen that much gametime
ASM – was out injured
I also think Shelvey is enjoying himself so I would wait until Liverpool to rest him as his lack of pace could hurt us.
Miggy – Fraser was in ahead of him until injury
I wouldnt change the defense. They dont do as much running as the midfield and attack.
Eric+Sykes(Quote)