Following Saturday’s much-improved performance and deserved point at home to Man City, we’re back at St James’ tomorrow night and can expect to see a few changes as we prepare to face Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup.
The winner will host Chelsea in the fourth round and, with this weekend’s trip to Everton in mind, we could see a few fringe players handed a chance to impress against League Two opposition.
With that in mind, Alexander Isak already ruled out and Eddie Howe admitting in today’s press conference that he’ll hand minutes to those who’ve not had much game time so far this season, I’m expecting to see Will Osula, Miguel Almiron, Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff, Tino Livramento, Lloyd Kelly and Emil Krafth come into the side.
It would be Osula’s first competitive start following his £10m move from Sheffield United this summer and it feels likely with Isak out, Callum Wilson still injured and Anthony Gordon likely to be saved for Saturday’s return to Goodison Park. Howe praised him this morning, revealing how well he’s settled in as he works on his game in training.
Almiron hasn’t seen many minutes this season and may be keen to prove a point – Howe suggested as much in this morning’s press conference – while Willock and Longstaff look set for recalls in midfield after neither started against Man City.
At the back, Livramento will come in at right-back after losing his spot to Kieran Trippier in our last two league games, with Krafth also deserving of a start after very little wrong while Fabian Schar served his three-match ban after his opening day red.
Kelly is yet to find his best form since arriving on a free from Bournemouth, but this could be an ideal time for him to find his feet; whether that’s at left-back or alongside Krafth in the middle.
As for youngsters who could feature, Irish talent Alex Murphy may be one to watch, while exciting winger Trevan Sanusi will be pushing for a place in the squad after an impressive pre-season and lively start to the U21 season.