The day has finally arrived. Tonight, Newcastle United return to the Champions League for the first time in 20 years.
First up is a trip to the San Siro, where Eddie Howe’s Mags take on AC Milan in the opening game of Group F. Here, we look at the 11 players we’re expecting to start the 5.45pm kick-off on TNT Sports.
Personally, I can’t see past the following side:
(4-3-3): Pope – Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn – Longstaff, Bruno, Tonali – Almiron, Isak, Gordon.
After rests over the weekend, I fully expect Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali and Miguel Almiron to return to our starting 11.
Elliot Anderson played the full 90 (for the first time in the Premier League) against Brentford, so it makes total sense for Tonali to replace him against his former club. I can’t see Callum Wilson starting twice in four days an expect him to make way for Isak; who has the pace and trickery to trouble Milan’s usually high line, along with some Champions League experience. He got a rest on Saturday and will come back in.
On the left, Howe has a few options. Does he start the in-form Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes or Jacob Murphy? Gordon has started every game this season and gave it his all for the full 90 minutes against Brentford, but he also looks to be one of our fittest players and capable of going again. Based on this, I can see him playing the first hour before one of Barnes or Murphy comes on.
It’s a real shame Joelinton isn’t fit, as his power, experience and drive could’ve been key, but Longstaff’s legs and Tonali’s quality could work nicely either side of Bruno.
