Allan Saint-Maximin has been ruled out of Newcastle United’s Premier League clash at Brentford (kick-off 3pm).
The French winger has started the previous four games for the Magpies - claiming assists against Manchester United and West Ham - but sits out of the visit to the Gtech Community Stadium with a hamstring injury, NewcastleWorld understands.
Joe Willock is recalled to the starting line-up in his place - joining Bruno Guimaraes and Sean Longstaff in the three-man midfield. Joelinton starts on the left.
Speaking about Saint-Maximin in midweek, head coach Eddie Howe said: “I think Maxi has been very focused for a while now. I think he’s trained very well, first and foremost, and that’s always the first aspect of the game that I judge because, for me, that then leads to the performance.
“He’s trained well, he’s been focused and I think he’s really keen for the team to do well. He’s an integral part of our team because he’s slightly different – no one can do what Maxi does. He’s very much an individual, but he’s performing well in a team structure.
“I think message to him is that we just want to see the best Maxi possible. Now, there’s loads of things that go into making that possible. Firstly, the responsibility always lies with the player – I’ve said that so many times when players have improved and developed into having really good seasons for us, they deserve all the credit.
“So, the responsibility is with him. He’s really focused on doing well at the moment, and it’s great to see.”
Howe has also decided to start Alexander Isak ahead of Callum Wilson in attack. Here’s United’s starting XI and subs in full:
1. GK: Nick Pope
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
3. CB: Fabian Schar
4. CB: Sven Botman