Three changes? – Predicted Newcastle team to face Chelsea tonight

Ahead of tonight’s Carabao Cup tie at St James’ Park, it’s time to predict which 11 Eddie Howe will select as we prepare to take on Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea for the second time in four days.

Here’s what we’ve gone with and why:

Predicted XI: Pope – Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall – Longstaff, Guimaraes, Joelinton – Murphy, Isak, Gordon. 

Our lack of pace at centre-back was exposed by Chelsea on Sunday, making some wonder if it’s time for Lloyd Kelly, but I think Howe will stick by Burn’s experience and leadership for such a big game where few will understand its importance more than our 6ft 7′ Geordie.

I think we’ll see a change in midfield. Tonali, despite his undoubted quality, is still finding his feet in this team and our record this season when Longstaff plays has been surprisingly good, so I think he’ll come in down the right side of our midfield three.

Willock will be pushing for a start, but Joelinton is a huge presence and the sort of player who could lead our press, lift the crowd and set the tone early on, so I’d be surprised if the Brazilian didn’t start.

In attack, Almiron didn’t do enough to keep his place at Chelsea and Barnes was anonymous. I’m hopeful Gordon will be fine based on Howe’s pre-match comments, so I can see him and Murphy coming in either side of Isak; who can hopefully build on Sunday’s goal and improve his all-round play after a few sloppy performances.

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

2 thoughts on “Three changes? – Predicted Newcastle team to face Chelsea tonight

  1. Hopeful, that’s all it can be Olly.
    We have problems defensively at CB’s going awol, midfield getting the balance right and no cohesion up front.
    Wing and a Prayer tonight.

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  2. Eddie Howe’s decision to shake up Newcastle’s lineup with five changes, especially bringing Gordon back, shows his focus on keeping the squad fresh for the Carabao clash. Facing Chelsea’s strong lineup, it’ll be a test of depth for both sides. Snow rider

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