Eddie Howe hints at changes versus Norwich City with four Newcastle United players on standby

Eddie Howe has hinted at changes to his Newcastle United starting XI for the trip to Norwich City today (kick-off 3pm).

The visit to Carrow Road is the Magpies’ third game in just six days having hosted Leicester City and Crystal Palace on Sunday & Wednesday.

United are currently on a three-game winning streak that has seen them hit the 40-point mark and all-but guarantee Premier League safety.

Indeed, it has taken a big physical effort from Howe’s men to get where they are, which is likely to see the head coach rotate his line-up against the Canaries.

Eddie Howe hints at changes versus Norwich

“Yeah, possibly,” Howe said when about potential changes. “We’ll have a look at it on an individual basis. We’ll speak to players this morning (Friday).

“We want players that are 100% fit and ready to give their best again physically.

“Norwich haven’t played midweek so we know the big physical cost, especially the manner of the two games and the physical effort that it took.

“We had long spells without possession in the second-half of both games. We need to be ready for a tough.”

That could see captain Jamaal Lascelles and Sean Longstaff return having last started in the 1-0 loss at Chelsea last month.

Joe Willock is pushing for a start having made an impact from the bench in the last two games.

Meanwhile, Dwight Gayle is also eyeing an opportunity in the closing weeks of the season, though Chris Wood has started every game since his £25million arrival from Burnley in January.

Plenty to play for despite sealing safety

Although Newcastle are safe from relegation, an incredible achievement given where they were at the beginning of the year, Howe insists there is still plenty to play for.

“First and foremost, we have standards to maintain,” Howe said. “We’ve had a way of playing and delivered consistent performances in the main. We don’t want to let those standards drop or let that feeling go.

“Every game we have between now and the end of the season is very difficult because we’re playing teams that have something to play for but as we do, we’re playing for Newcastle.

“Not for one second will our preparation drop, nor will our expectations. We’ve got to make sure the players are ready to give their all.”