The day is finally here. 76 days since the last, Newcastle United finally return to Premier League action for the start of the 2023-24 season.
Aston Villa are first up at St James’ Park (kick-off 5:30pm) and Magpies head coach Eddie Howe is facing some tough decisions regarding his starting XI.
United have spent around £120million on new signings, with Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento arriving from AC Milan, Leicester City and Southampton, respectively.
The question is, will any of the trio start? Or will Howe keep faith with the same team that achieved Champions League qualification last time out for a little while longer.
Even within the group of players Howe coached last term, one in particular has given him a big selection headache. That player is Elliot Anderson, who finished the summer as United’s top scorer with four goals.
“I have genuinely five or six [decisions] to make, which is a compliment to the squad,” said Howe during his pre-match press conference. “I understand there is more debate over certain positions, but you’ll have to wait and see the teamsheet!”
Howe is right, we will have to wait, but here’s the starting XI NewcastleWorld is predicting Howe to go with to face Unai Emery’s Villa.
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1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope kept 14 clean sheets last season as Newcastle recorded the joint-best defensive record in the Premier League.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Stand-in captain Trippier is integral, both offensively and defensively.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Schar was a doubt until Howe confirmed on Friday the Swiss international is set to be available.
4. CB: Sven Botman
The Dutchman will be looking to build on an impressive first season in England.