Newcastle United are in Premier League action this afternoon as they face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
It’s been three weeks since the Magpies’ last Premier League match and they need no reminding of the result after being heavily criticised for their Tyne-Wear derby defeat to Sunderland.
While a victory in South London won’t make up for the derby loss, it would give United renewed hope in their bid to finish inside the European qualification places.
Eddie Howe has some big decisions to make, including who starts in net between Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope. Ramsdale has started the last six games after Pope’s error in the home defeat to Everton but himself has struggled to impress.
Newcastle remain without Bruno Guimaraes but Lewis Miley’s return from injury gives Howe an extra option in midfield, or even at right-back.
In attack, there is a clamour from supporters to see Nick Woltemade back as the central striker having been deployed in midfield in recent months.
Here’s our predicted Newcastle United starting XI to take on Crystal Palace:
9. RW: Anthony Elanga
A player in form? Elanga didn’t score against Sunderland of course but has netted three goals in his last four games for club and country. | Getty Images
10. LW: Harvey Barnes
After his England call-up, Barnes will be doing all he can to win a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, and scoring goals will help his cause. | Getty Images
11. ST: Anthony Gordon
Howe has gone with Gordon up front of late and that could continue this weekend, even if there is a clamour from fans to see Nick Woltemade back up top. | Getty Images