Newcastle United are in Champions League action against Bayer Leverkusen tonight, with Eddie Howe again expected to rotate his starting line-up.
Howe made six changes for the 2-1 win over Burnley on Saturday in preparation for the trip to Leverkusen and Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby away to Sunderland.
It will be the first time the Magpies have played their fiercest rivals in the Premier League since 2016 with local bragging rights at stake.
When asked if he will pick his team against Leverkusen with Sunderland in mind, Howe said: “No, not necessarily. I think we'll pick a team that I think will be strong tomorrow and hopefully strong on Sunday as well.
“We've had quite a few injuries, especially to our backline, which has been there for a few games now, and I think that's an area of concern for us.
“But we come here with a strong squad and we're ready for this week, which, as you say, two massive games for us. But we'll be ready for both.”
Newcastle have no fresh injuries but remain light on bodies in defence with right-backs Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth out until Christmas and Sven Botman waiting for the effects of his back injection to kick in.
The Magpies, however, do have £55m summer signing Yoane Wissa available after he made his long-awaited debut at the weekend.
Here’s the Newcastle United starting XI we’re predicting Howe to name at the BayArena:
1. GK: Aaron Ramsdale
His first Champions League appearance for Newcastle. | Getty Images
2. RB: Tino Livramento
Has started every game since returning from injury with Kieran Trippier and Emil Krafth sidelined. | Getty Images
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3. CB: Malick Thiaw
On a run of 17 consecutive starts. | Getty Images
4. CB: Fabian Schar
Schar recently voiced his frustration on not playing much recently. Would be his second start in four days, if selected. | Getty Images