Eddie Howe is set to name at least one change to his Newcastle United starting XI to take on Liverpool at St James’ Park.
While Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin have recovered from their knocks picked up in last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Bournemouth, Joe Willock, although his hamstring injury isn’t as bad as first feared, is expected to miss the visit of Jurgen Klopp’s Reds.
There are also questions surrounding Callum Wilson’s availability after the Magpies No.9 missed the trip to the Vitality Stadium because of a minor hamstring issue.
With Willock a doubt and Bruno Guimaraes serving the final game of his three-match suspension, a shortage of central midfielders could force Howe into a change in formation for the first time in 2022-23.
“We’ll always try and make the right tactical decisions based on our opponent and based on ourselves,” Howe said.
“First and foremost, you have to look internally. How can we get the best Newcastle? Whether that’s picking certain players, and basing that around the system, (or) whether it’s picking the system – and then picking the players around it. That’s always a decision we have, and we can change that
"Then, I think, you look at your opponent, and go ‘what do we need to be competitive in this game?’. So it’s something we need long and hard about. Hopefully, we’ll get the right call this weekend.”
It’s set up for a big game on Tyneside with Liverpool needing to win to keep their top four dreams alive. Three points for United however, and their own Champions League hopes will increase ahead of the Carabao Cup final next up.
Here’s the predicted Newcastle United starting XI NewcastleWorld is predicting Howe to name:
1. GK: Nick Pope
Pope’s run of clean sheets has ended in recent weeks. That said, the last time he conceded more than two goals in a game was at Anfield in August.
2. RB: Kieran Trippier
The England right-back had a rare off-day at Bournemouth last weekend, although still made a vital contribution to clear Dominic Solanke’s shot off the line.
3. CB: Fabian Schar
The record still stands... Newcastle are yet to lose a game Schar has started in 2022-23. Long may it continue.
4. CB: Sven Botman
The Dutchman’s levels have taken a slight dip in recent weeks but United will need him back to top form against Liverpool’s front three.