The big day is finally here. After almost eight years without a Tyne and Wear derby, we travel to Sunderland for an FA Cup third round tie with the Mackems.
Keeping in mind injuries and today’s occasion, here’s the side we’re expecting Eddie Howe to go with:
Predicted XI: Dubravka – Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn – Longstaff, Bruno, Joelinton – Almiron, Isak, Gordon.
A lot will depend on Trippier’s fitness (Livramento will surely start if he misses out), but I’m pretty certain that Burn will start, whether that be at left-back or centre-back. There’ll be a temptation to hand Paul Dummett a start in a game that will mean so much to him and I wouldn’t be shocked if Lascelles returns. However, a full strength line-up seems more likely given the importance of this game, meaning Schar and Botman should get the nod.
In midfield, I think we’ll see Longstaff replace Miley and the return of Almiron out wide after he was benched at Anfield, allowing Joelinton to drop into a midfield three and Gordon to move back to the left.
With Wilson out once again and none of our injured attackers back from injury, Isak will lead the line once again.
How do you see us lining up, folks? Let us know in the comments below.
If Trippier is fit Howe has to play Livramento instead of Burn .
Otherwise he has doesn’t have any other options as he obviously doesn’t trust Hall.
Joseph(Quote)