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:
9. RW: Jacob Murphy (in for Anthony Gordon)
Murphy dropped out of the starting XI against Brighton but is in line for a recall at the London Stadium. | Getty Images
10. LW: Harvey Barnes
Barnes has struggled to nail down a starting spot since joining from Leicester City almost two years ago but now could be his chance to shine. | Getty Images
11. ST: Alexander Isak
Howe played down fears Isak, who is Newcastle’s top scorer with 22 goals this campaign, is struggling with an injury after going off against Brighton. | Getty Images