Today’s the day, folks. After all of the talk, Newcastle United will take on Manchester United in today’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
Without further ado, here’s the starting 11 we’re expecting Eddie Howe to select come 4.30pm:
(4-3-3): Karius – Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn – Longstaff, Bruno, Joelinton – Almiron, Wilson, Saint-Maximin.
In goal, Karius feels nailed on to start, with Pope suspended, Dubravka ineligible, Darlow out on loan and Gillespie having nothing like the experience our recently signed German has racked up over the years.
I see no reason why the back four would change, but we will see Bruno return to midfield. Willock could pass a late fitness test and put himself in contention. However, I can see Howe using him as an impact sub, starting Joelinton and Longstaff either side of Bruno and sticking by Saint-Maximin after his man of the match display against Liverpool.
Up top, I’m backing Wilson to lead the line. He’s often been a big game player for us and is arguably our most ice-cool finisher under pressure. You’d also expect him to thrive off the atmosphere and give the aggressive Lisandro Martinez one hell of a battle. Like Willock, Isak could then be an electric option off the bench against tiring legs.
On the right, Almiron will be hoping to get back amongst the goals after scoring at Bournemouth and follow that new contract announcement with an all-action display down the right. With Luke Shaw likely to get forward and Marcus Rashford vs Kieran Trippier tipped to be a key battle, Miggy has a huge role to play at both ends.
Don’t disagree with your predicted line up, think both Isak and Willock (if fit ) will both figure from the bench.
Joseph(Quote)
Looking forward to Burn and Longstaff starring.
Only one I disagree with is I might have left ASM on the bench and played Isak on the left. Maxi had a great game against Liverpool but when did he last have 2 of those in a row? Bring him on if we need him to make a difference.
Daveys **** mate(Quote)