Eddie Howe faces £59m selection decision as Newcastle United full-back ruled out v Marseille

Eddie Howe is weighing up changes to his Newcastle United starting XI for tonight’s Champions League clash against Marseille.

Newcastle put in a huge physical effort to beat Manchester City last Saturday to return to winning ways in the Premier League following consecutive defeats away to West Ham United and Brentford.

The Magpies head to Everton this weekend eyeing a first domestic away win since April, which is also the last time they won back-to-back games in the league. With Marseille scheduled in between both matches, Howe is considering rotating his team.

Eddie Howe weighing up changes to his NUFC starting XI v Marseille

Howe told NewcastleWorld: “As I've said many, many times this season, I think there's an element where trusting the squad is really important. We've got some very, very good players who will be desperate to play as well. I do trust everybody and I think we have the depth to play these games.

“I think by playing the same players in every game will not help us achieve our objective. But every game is different. The challenge is different. Certain players will suit certain games, so, as I said, that's the decisions I have to make.”

Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall decision as Kieran Trippier ruled out

Full-backs Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, who joined the Magpies in 2023 for a combined £60million, returned from their respective injuries against Man City to make their first starts since September. Livramento played a full game while Hall withdrew in the 77th minute due to cramp.

When asked if the pair could start for the second time in four days, Howe replied: “That's the decision that I have to make really. I have to consult the medical team, the sports science team and try and come up with the right decisions regarding both of those players.

“They're so important for us, as we saw on Saturday, that their long-term fitness is crucial for us, especially with Kieran's [Trippier] injury. We're not quite sure how long he will be out. That leaves us short of options in the full-back position.

“So yeah, a decision for me to make overnight and into tomorrow, to try and pick the best team to try and win this game, but also protect them.”

Newcastle United striker decision: Nick Woltemade or Anthony Gordon

With Anthony Gordon back available, Howe may also consider resting Nick Woltemade, who has started the last 15 games for club and country. As it stands, the German is the only fit recognised striker with Yoane Wissa and Will Osula sidelined,

Howe said: “I think all options are available to us. It's great to have Anthony back with us. He has worked hard in the break. He had a minor injury, I don't think it was a serious injury, it was a minor injury, but it was enough to keep him out.

“Especially with explosive players, you've got to be really careful with muscle injuries that doesn't become a longer-term problem. But he's done the work. I'd say he's fully fit. And, yeah, the ability to use him in different positions.”

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