Eddie Howe wants to get the balance right as he prepares to make changes to his Newcastle United starting XI for tonight’s Carabao Cup fourth round tie at home to Tottenham Hotspur (kick-off 8pm).
The Magpies host Spurs in what is their fourth game in 12 days, with West Ham United, Athletic Bilbao and Brentford still to come before the November international break.
United have won back-to-back matches, beating Benfica in the Champions League and Fulham in the Premier League, and now return to the competition in which they won in March after beating Liverpool 2-1 in the final at Wembley.
Howe’s side defence began with a 4-1 victory over League One outfit Bradford City at St James’ Park last month.
“Yes, I think it's an important decision that I've got coming up for this game because, of course, we want to progress,” Howe said when asked about rotation his team against Spurs. “Competition means a lot to us, current holders, etc, o, we don't want to give that up easily.
“But I have to trust the squad as well, and we've got some very good players that need football and need an opportunity to show their talents and what they can bring the squad. So, I think there'll be an element of that, but, as I said, I've got to try and get the balance right.”
Howe could hand Aaron Ramsdale a chance in goal while Fabian Schar will be hoping to retain his place in defence after coming on for Sven Botman, who is a doubt for tonight’s game due to a head cut, against Fulham.
In midfield, Sandro Tonali is back to full fitness after struggling with illness. Jacob Ramsey started the Champions League match against Benfica last Tuesday but was rested versus Fulham having only just returned from an ankle problem.
In attack, both Anthony Elanga and Harvey Barnes will hope their recent positive cameos can earn them a place in the starting XI.
Here’s how Newcastle United are predicted to line-up:
5. LB: Dan Burn
Lewis Hall is nearing a return but will need a period to build his fitness, which is likely to mean Burn continues as the emergency left-back. | Getty Images
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6. CM: Sandro Tonali (in for Bruno Guimaraes)
Tonali struggled with illness last week but after coming off the bench against Fulham, the Italian should be ready to return to the starting XI. | Getty Images
7. CM: Lewis Miley
Bruno Guimaraes admitted he was “very tired” after the Fulham game, which suggests he could be rested against Spurs. Miley is arguably the most like-for-like replacement. | Getty Images
8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton performed well against Fulham and helped Burn out defensively. That said, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Jacob Ramsey return to the XI. | Getty Images