The opening day of the Premier League campaign is almost here. Excitement, anticipation and, if you’re Eddie Howe, a season of tough decisions.
It all starts Saturday evening when Unai Emery’s Aston Villa visit St James’ Park. Howe must decide on his first starting XI of the term and ultimately, some players are going to be left disappointed.
“There are going to be some people who aren’t even going to make the bench. That’s just the reality, it’s always the case,” said Howe. “There will always be disappointed players but I think that disappointment needs to be controlled and I think that was probably our big strength last year.
“Anyone we left out of the squad or starting XI responded in the right way. We’re going to need the same again with a different squad. We’re going to need the same dynamic.”
I’ve toyed over a couple of players but with the aforementioned words of Howe’s ringing in my head, I’ve put my tin hat on and named the starting XI I’d name against Villa.
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1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope missed the opening three games of pre-season through injury and instantly made a huge difference on his return.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
Little explanation is needed here. Stand-in skipper Trippier is integral, both offensively and defensively.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
Schar is in a race against time to be fit for Aston Villa but Howe will give him every chance to prove his fitness.
4. CB: Sven Botman
The Dutchman needed little time to adapt to Premier League life last season. More of the same is expected, or perhaps he can get better.