Eddie Howe is expected to name changes to his Newcastle United starting XI for tonight’s FA Cup third round clash against Sheffield Wednesday (kick-off 6pm).
The visit to Hillsborough falls in between Tuesday’s goalless draw at Premier League leaders Arsenal and next week’s crucial last eight Carabao Cup tie versus Leicester City.
“It’s going to be down to me this weekend to try and get a balance right of how we prepare for this game and what team we pick,” Howe said. We want to win the game, we want to go through. We have another cup game a couple of days later.
“There’s a lot to think about and I haven’t fully, as I sit here now, made my mind up on what time I will pick. I’m going to assess training today and make a decision.”
Here’s our predicted Newcastle starting XI take on Sheffield Wednesday:
1. GK: Martin Dubravka (in for Nick Pope)
Dubravka was named on the bench against Arsenal, just 48 hours after he recalled from his season-long spell at Manchester United.
2. RB: Javier Manquillo (in for Kieran Trippier)
Kieran Trippier has started every Premier League match this campaign, with Manquillo only start coming in the Carabao Cup v Crystal Palace.
3. CB: Jamaal Lascelles (in for Fabian Schar)
The Magpies skipper hasn’t received much game time this season, but when he has, Lascelles has proved very dependable.
4. CB: Sven Botman
Botman is tipped to retain his spot with Dan Burn more likely to be rested after Matt Targett’s injury means he is first choice left-back.