Eddie Howe has made eight changes to his Newcastle United starting XI for tonight’s Carabao Cup fourth round tie at Manchester United (kick-off 8:15pm).
The Magpies have the opportunity to progress into the last eight of the competition but an ever-growing injury list and fatigue in the squad has seen Howe turn to his fringe players.
Martin Dubravka, Emil Krafth, Matt Ritchie and Joe Willock are handed their first starts of the 2023-24 campaign, while Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall make only their second start since arriving from Southampton and Chelsea, respectively, in the summer.
Sean Longstaff, Joelinton and Anthony Gordon are the only survivors from Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the latter fielded as the central striker with Callum Wilson rested.
Speaking about his team selection during his pre-Man United press conference, Howe said: “We’ll be juggling minutes and trying to make sure we are very competitive. We want to try and compete in every game but make sure when players enter the pitch they’re able to give their best.
“I think in this next game that’s going to be a bit of a juggling act but we do have the players who can play different positions. It’s one of the strengths of our squad so we’re certainly going to utilise that.”
Among the substitutes are Kieran Trippier, Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron and Bruno Guimaraes, while under-21s pair Amadou Diallo and Ben Parkinson are also included.
Here’s Newcastle United’s starting XI & subs in full:
1. GettyImages-1761871708.jpg
2. GK: Martin Dubravka (in for Nick Pope)
A first start of the campaign for the Slovakian against his former loan club.
3. RB: Tino Livramento (in for Kieran Trippier)
The £35m summer signing from Southampton makes his second start since appearing in the last round against Man City.
4. CB: Emil Krafth (in for Jamaal Lascelles)
His first start since sustaining an ACL injury away to Tranmere Rovers last August. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY