Newcastle United host Aston Villa at St James’ Park looking to bounce back from another heavy away defeat.
The Magpies lost 4-1 at Coventry City on Monday night, repeating their result at Leeds United in their previous Premier League away game, which they followed up with a 2-1 win over Hull City on Tyneside.
Now Matthias Jaissle’s side are under pressure to deliver a similar response against a Villa side fresh from thrashing Turkish giants Fenerbahce 6-0 in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Jaissle has some big selection calls to make after welcoming back five players from injury for the trip to Coventry.
Nico Gonzalez started after missing the win over Hull through concussion protocols, while Amar Dedic, Joelinton, Will Osula and Dan Burn were named on the bench before being introduced in the second half.
The big question now is, which of those players could Jaissle recall to his starting XI against Villa – and who could make way as a result? Here’s how we’re predicting Newcastle to line up:
5. CB: Sven Botman
Once made defending look flawless, now he looks a bag of nerves. If he doesn’t perform in this game, then expect a fit-again Dan Burn to take his place next week. | Getty Images
6. LB: Lewis Hall
Didn’t cover himself in glory for Coventry’s third goal but is still continuously one of the Magpies’ better performers. | Getty Images
7. CM: Lewis Miley
If it is to be Miley in midfield, then he needs to show a whole lot more. Was excellent on the opening day against Liverpool but hasn’t quite hit the same levels since. | Getty Images
8. CM: Nico Gonzalez
It seems like it’s Gonzalez or Sean Steur at the moment, despite Jaissle insisting the two can play together. A Gonzalez x Steur midfield would be my choice. | Getty Images