Newcastle United’s predicted starting XI v Bournemouth - Alexander Isak & Anthony Gordon calls made

Newcastle United’s predicted starting XI to take on Bournemouth on the South Coast.

Eddie Howe returns to the Vitality Stadium for the first time since leaving his role as Bournemouth manager three years ago.

“From the emotional side, it’s difficult to predict how I’ll feel walking out to a stadium I know so well and so many people I know so well,” the Newcastle United head coach said. “But for the moment, we’re preparing as we would for any other Premier League game to make sure we get our players ready for what will be a really tough game.

“I know from the other side preparing for a game as Bournemouth manager, it’s a special place to play football when it’s rocking. We need to be ready for that kind of atmosphere.”

The 45-year-old has twice faced the Cherries Newcastle boss - both of which have been tight games at St James’ Park.

The two sides played out a 1-1 draw when they met in the league in September before United won 1-0 to progress into the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup in December.

Alexander Isak scored from the penalty spot to rescue a point in the league meeting, and he will return to the matchday squad after concussion ruled the Swede out against West Ham United last weekend.

Indeed, Howe is facing a potential dilemma in the attacking positions as he tries to cope without Bruno Guimaraes for the next two matches due to his suspension.

Allan Saint-Maximin started against the Hammers, but there are some calls to hand new signing Anthony Gordon his full debut after an encouraging 20-minute cameo last weekend.

Here’s the Newcastle starting XI we’re predicting Howe to name:

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