Newcastle United’s line-up to face Manchester City confirmed: Key man’s absence continues but another returns

Eddie Howe has named an unchanged starting XI to take on Premier League champions Manchester City at St James’ Park.

The Newcastle United head coach has kept faith with the same line-up that earned a goalless draw at Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend.

Sven Botman partners Fabian Schar in central defence while Dan Burn continues at left-back. Kieran Trippier captains the side.

A three-man midfield of Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Joelinton take on City.

Callum Wilson leads the line with Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin either side of him.

Emil Krafth is named in the matchday squad for the first time this season after recovering from a back problem.

There’s no Matt Targett in the squad for the second consecutive week after he sustained a dead leg in the opening day win over Nottingham Forest.

Newcastle United XI: Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar, Sven Botman, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Joe Willock, Allan Saint-Maximin, Callum Wilson, Miguel Almiron.

Subs: Martin Dubravka, Jamaal Lascelles, Matt Ritchie, Emil Krafth, Matt Ritchie, Chris Wood, Ryan Fraser, Jacob Murphy, Elliot Anderson, Sean Longstaff.