It wasn’t a luxury Newcastle United had last season as injuries tore through the squad. Fast forward to the Wolves game on Sunday, and there’s an argument to say the bench has never been stronger.
Trailing 1-0 at half-time, head coach Eddie Howe was able to turn to his bench and introduce Harvey Barnes, Sandro Tonali and Joe Willock, as well as Kieran Trippier later on.
It was, of course, Barnes that scored the winner after Fabian Schar levelled. Tonali and Willock also had positive cameos, while Trippier’s experience and know-how shouldn’t be overlooked.
Onto Fulham this weekend, and Howe must decide whether or not to start some, if not all of those players. He may indeed decide to keep things the same. Either way, there are some tough calls to be made.
Stepping into the shoes of Howe (we don’t envy him!), this is the Newcastle United starting XI we’d name against Fulham:
5. LB: Lloyd Kelly
Coming up against the pace of Adam Traore down this side, Kelly, at present, is more reliable defensively over Lewis Hall, whose best attribute is pushing forward. | Getty Images
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian hasn’t been at his fluent best so far this season but remains an important player regardless. Still unbeaten as skipper. | Wolves via Getty Images
7. CM: Sandro Tonali
If not Fulham, then when? There is a real clamour from supporters to see Tonali start and his performances from club and country last week probably warrants that. | Getty Images
8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton hasn’t performed well away from home so far this season after being hooked at half-time against Wolves. With Tonali and Joe Willock waiting in the wings, the pressure is on to improve. | Carl Recine