Eddie Howe's expected Newcastle United starting XI vs Ipswich Town as key man returns

Eddie Howe returns to the Newcastle United dugout for this afternoon’s Premier League clash against Ipswich Town at St James’ Park.

The Magpies have been without their head coach for the last three matches, with Howe suffering from pneumonia. He was hospitalised 48 hours before the 4-1 win over Manchester United before missing further games against Crystal Palace and Aston Villa whilst he recovered.

Although admitting he doesn’t yet feel 100%, Howe returned to work on Wednesday and will be on the touchline for the visit of Ipswich. United are eyeing a win that will take them back up to third in the Premier League table and further underlined their Champions League qualification credentials.

Newcastle’s starting XI has been unchanged for the last seven fixtures. They played three times in six days last week and Jason Tindall suggested after the defeat at Villa Park that it was a game too far.

When asked about potential changes against The Tractor Boys, Howe said: “I think it's very easy in hindsight to make that assumption. I'm certainly not going to critique Jason's decisions. I think he did brilliantly.

“The team has been unchanged because the team's performed really well. That was a difficult week, three games in six days. But there's certainly no fatigue for this game. So, I will pick what I think is the strongest team. It gives us the best chance to win the game.”

So, will Howe stick or twist? Here’s how we’re expecting Newcastle to line-up at St James’ Park when the team news is announced at 1:45pm.