Nineteenth-placed Newcastle United take on top of the Premier League Chelsea today looking to secure their first win of the 2021/22 season at the 11th attempt, tenth in the top flight.
Graeme Jones again takes charge of the Magpies, following on from his side’s 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace – and here’s who our writer Liam Kennedy thinks should be in the Magpies’ starting XI. With some interesting changes...
1. GOALKEEPER: Martin Dubravka
Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United gives their team instructions during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Newcastle United at The King Power Stadium on May 07, 2021 in Leicester, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. Photo: Michael Regan
2. RIGHT WING-BACK: Javier Manquillo
Raul Jimenez of Wolverhampton Wanderers is closed down by Javier Manquillo and Miguel Almiron of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United at Molineux on October 02, 2021 in Wolverhampton, England. Photo: Catherine Ivill
3. CENTRE-BACK: Fabian Schar
Jaden Philogene-Bidace of Aston Villa goes down from a challenge from Fabian Schaer of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Newcastle United at Villa Park on August 21, 2021 in Birmingham, England. Photo: Ryan Pierse
4. CENTRE-BACK: Federico Fernandez
Jarred Gillett, the match referee interacts with Federico Fernandez of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Watford and Newcastle United at Vicarage Road on September 25, 2021 in Watford, England. Photo: Alex Morton