The FA Cup is back this weekend, as Newcastle play their third home game in a week against Premier League side Bournemouth.
The Cherries won their first game in 12 on Wednesday, beating Spurs 3-2 on the south coast, while Newcastle made it three wins in a row via a last gap victory over Leeds.
As we edge closer to today’s 3pm kick-off, here’s the team we’re backing Eddie Howe to go with.
Predicted XI
(4-3-3): Pope – Trippier, Thiaw, Botman, Livramento – Willock, Bruno, Ramsey – Murphy, Wissa, Barnes.
OUT: Schar, Hall, Miley, Tonali, Joelinton, Gordon, Woltemade. IN: Botman, Livramento, Trippier, Willock, Ramsey, Murphy, Wissa.
Injured: Burn, Osula, Krafth, Schar.
Howe has already hinted at rotation in Friday’s press conference, but he was equally adamant that we’ll field a ‘strong team’ capable of getting us into the next round.
At the back, I think Hall should be protected – he’s played a lot of football since returning from injury – and I wouldn’t be surprised if Tonali is rested after his partner gave birth on Thursday morning.
Based on Howe’s rotation hint, it seems like a good time to bring Trippier and Tino into the defence, with Willock and Ramsey due a start, Murphy fit to return and Wissa likely to come back in.
Miley could replace Bruno if the Brazilian is to be protected for Man City, while Alex Murphy is one to watch if Tino, Trippier or Botman aren’t all deemed ready to start.
