Eddie Howe has given very little away in regards to his Newcastle United team selection against Bournemouth tonight (kick-off 7:45pm).
The Magpies head coach welcomes his former club to St James’ Park but long friendships will be momentarily put to one side with a place in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup up for grabs.
Kieran Trippier and Nick Pope returned from the World Cup last week and played in Saturday’s friendly win over Rayo Vallecano. Callum Wilson, Bruno Guimaraes and Fabian Schar also reported back, but were absent over the weekend.
Other first-team stars such as Miguel Almiron, Joelinton and Dan Burn didn’t play, which has left people second-guessing Howe’s team selection.
Here’s our predicted Newcastle’s starting line-up to face Bournemouth:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Set to continue in between the sticks after marking his return from England duty with an appearance against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday. Photo: George Wood
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Similar to Pope, Trippier went straight back into the starting XI against Rayo Vallecano after returning from the World Cup.
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Lascelles hasn’t featured too often in the Premier League this season but has started both of United’s two Carabao Cup games so far.
4. CB: Sven Botman
As well as Botman’s defending, his forward passing will be important as Newcastle look to break down a deep Bournemouth defence. Photo: George Wood