Newcastle United host Brentford in the first Premier League fixture after the international break. The Magpies are hoping to bounce back from a dip in form which has seen them lose their last three games against Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton.
Eddie Howe’s side have been handed a difficult start to the season and this upcoming clash at St James’ Park will be Newcastle’s final fixture before their long awaited return to the Champions League against AC Milan at the San Siro.
The Newcastle boss has a number of big selection decisions to make with that game in mind and new signings Harvey Barnes, Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento are all hoping to make their first starts in Black and White.
Howe has made just one change to his entire first XI in the opening four games of the season, but can we expect to see further changes this time around?
Here is our predicted XI for the game against Brentford.
1. Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
Nick Pope has been an ever present in between the sticks under Eddie Howe and he featured in both of Newcastle’s victories over Brentford last term. (Getty Images)
2. Right back: Kieran Trippier
Kieran Trippier was deployed on the left hand side for England during their win against Scotland, but we expect him to return to his natural position this time around. (Getty Images)
3. Centre back: Fabian Schar
Fabian Schar has played in every minute of every game this season and he is likely to keep his place in the lineup. (Getty Images)
4. Centre back: Sven Botman
Newcastle United looked vulnerable at the back without their star defender Sven Botman. They will be hoping that the defender has had enough time to recover during the international break. (Getty Images)