It’s matchday and we’re back at St James’ Park, where Newcastle United take on Wimbledon in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Here’s the side we think Eddie Howe could select for tonight’s match and why:
Predicted XI: Pope – Livramento, Krafth, Schar, Kelly – Longstaff, Bruno, Willock – Almiron, Osula, Barnes.
At the back, I think he’ll stick with Pope – as he did at Nottingham Forest in the last round – while recalls for Livramnto, Krafth and Kelly feel likely given all three missed out on Saturday. It’s a chance for Kelly to build some confidence, while Tino and Krafth have done little wrong when called upon this season.
Schar could well be Burn, but the former had three games off after his red card on the opening day, where as Burn hasn’t missed a minute and may be given a night off.
Willock and Longstaff look set for recalls in midfield after neither started against Man City. Tonali looked tired as he came off with cramp on Saturday, so he’ll surely be saved for Everton along with one or Bruno or Joelinton. I think it’s more likely the former starts as our only natural No.6.
Almiron hasn’t seen many minutes this season and may be keen to prove a point, Isak and Wilson are injured and Gordon will surely by saved for Saturday, meaning we should see a first start for Osula and Barnes on the left after he was taken off early against City.
Trevan Sanusi will be hoping for minutes after an impressive pre-season and lively start to the U21 season, with Irish defender Alex Murphy also likely to play some part.
I would swop Murphy in for Schar as LCB
otherwise agree
PremAndUp(Quote)
Don’t think Howe will go that weak, personally.
Olly Hawkins(Quote)