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:

5. LB: Tino Livramento
Livramento started at left-back in Lewis Hall’s absence against Brighton and could stay there long-term with Hall out for the season. | Getty Images

6. CM: Sandro Tonali
Tonali is five appearances away from making his 50th for Newcastle. | Getty Images

7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes (in for Lewis Miley)
This is a big week for Newcastle, and they need their captain on top form. | Getty Images

8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton has only just returned from a month out with a knee issue but is just one yellow card away from serving a two-match ban. | Getty Images