Newcastle United are looking to stop the rot when they host Brighton & Hove Albion at St James’ Park this afternoon.
The Magpies head into the game sitting 14th in the Premier League table on the back of four straight defeats, and nine losses in their previous 12 matches.
Eddie Howe’s side are as close to the relegation zone as they are to sixth-place Brighton, with eight points the difference ahead of the final four matches of the campaign.
Howe met with Newcastle’s owners this week and while he retains their full support, he is under no illusions of the need to get back to winning ways before the season is over.
However, he faces a Brighton side that United haven’t beaten in six games.
Newcastle will be boosted by Joelinton’s return from suspension, while it is hoped Anthony Gordon will be available following two games out with a hip flexor injury.
Howe has decisions to make all over the park, including whether to recall Lewis Hall at left-back and who starts in attack with £119million duo Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa pushing for starts after their encouraging cameos against Arsenal last weekend.
Here’s how Newcastle United predicted to line-up:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Recalled in between the sticks last weekend and despite almost getting sent off done enough to retain his place. | Getty Images
2. RB: Lewis Miley
Whether it’s right-back or central midfield, Miley rarely looks flustered. | Getty Images
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3. CB: Malick Thiaw
Made his 50th appearance for Newcastle last weekend, which is quite remarkable when you consider he only joined last summer. | AFP via Getty Images
4. CB: Sven Botman
Usually compliments Thiaw better than Dan Burn. | Getty Images