One of the most challenging weeks in Newcastle United’s season is now followed by the biggest.
In the last seven days, the Magpies have lost Anthony Gordon to a three-match suspension and watched both Lewis Hall and Sven Botman go under the knife to fix their respective injuries.
It leaves United without three of their most important players, not only for the visit to West Ham United this evening but Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.
But head coach Eddie Howe has challenged the players coming into the team to make a difference.
“We still have everything to play for, all those players coming into the team will feel like they can make the difference,” he said at his pre-match press conference. “You have to be ready to perform, to play.
“We have been working hard with the players behind the scenes so that everyone can play their part successfully in this period.”
In Hall’s absence against Brighton & Hove Albion, Tino Livramento started at left-back but Howe also has Matt Targett at his disposal.
Meanwhile on the left wing, Harvey Barnes is eyeing a rare start in his preferred position, though Joelinton is also capable of playing there.
Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up against West Ham:
1. GK: Martin Dubravka
The Slovakian was preferred to Nick Pope against Brighton and could retain his place ahead of the Carabao Cup final. | Getty Images
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Trippier withdrew with a back issue against Brighton but Howe has confirmed the right-back is fine to feature at the London Stadium. | Getty Images
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Schar has been a regular pick for Howe, not just this season but since he arrived as head coach in November 2021. | Getty Images
4. CB: Dan Burn
With Sven Botman out for the next eight weeks with a knee issue, Newcastle will be desperate to keep Burn fit and available. | Getty Images