Newcastle United's confirmed XI v Nottingham Forest: Two changes & injury blow as £95m duo return

Newcastle United's confirmed starting XI v Nottingham Forest: Eddie Howe names two changes.

Newcastle United's starting XI against Nottingham Forest features two changes from Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Luton Town.

In a fresh injury concern for the Magpies, captain Jamaal Lascelles drops out of the matchday squad after limping off in the 37th minute at Kenilworth Road.

In Lascelles' place, Sven Botman makes his first Premier League start since September. The other change sees Alexander Isak selected ahead of Callum Wilson in attack.

Meanwhile, Joelinton is back among the substitutes after missing the previous two matches with a hamstring issue.

Saturday's defeat to Luton saw the Magpies suffer their fourth consecutive Premier League away defeat with only the Hatters and Sheffield United picking up fewer points this season.

But at St James' Park, Howe's men have been pretty unstoppable.

They've beaten Aston VillaBrentfordBurnleyCrystal PalaceArsenalChelsea and Manchester United. Only Liverpool have prevented United from taking maximum points.

The stark difference between Newcastle's home and away form has put them seventh in the top-flight table but can move one place higher with a win over Forest.

“Regardless of home and away we are desperate for another fixture very quickly and the Luton game to the back of our minds," said Howe.

“Our home form has been really strong. It is a great environment for us to play and express ourselves.

“It’s a really tough game as well and we are looking forward to it.

“Whenever you play a team that has changed manager that is an interesting dynamic. Potential changes tactically, so we are going to have to be well prepared for the match.”

Here's Newcastle United's starting XI and subs in full:

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