Newcastle United’s Premier League clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers feels like the start of the new season, apart from it isn’t.
Yep, we’re three games into the campaign but the Alexander Isak saga and sudden lack of an experienced striker have dominated the external chatter.
But heading into the game against Wolves, that noise, at least we think it is, is no more. Isak is gone, joining Liverpool for a British record £130million, and there are two new strikers in Toon, with £69m club-record signing Nick Woltemade arriving from Stuttgart and Yoane Wissa joining from Brentford for £55m.
The big question is, which striker gets the nod against Wolves? Or could neither or both play? Here’s how Newcastle are predicted to line-up for the match next Saturday:
5. LB: Lewis Hall (in for Kieran Tripper)
Looks fit and raring to go after two positive substitute appearances against Liverpool and Leeds United. | Getty Images
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
There’s strong competition in the midfield now, but it’ll take some doing to displace the club’s skipper. | AFP via Getty Images
7. CM: Sandro Tonali
Showed his commitment to the cause before the international break after battling through the pain barrier with a shoulder issue. | Getty Images
8. CM: Joelinton (in for Sven Botman)
The Brazilian is back fit after missing the Leeds game with a muscle issue. | Getty Images