Newcastle United return to action after the international break, hosting Manchester United at St James’ Park.
With a win over Manchester United, Newcastle will be able to reclaim their place in the top four.
It’s also a chance for vengeance, as this Sunday’s game is a rematch of the Carabao Cup final from February. The game at Wembley ended in defeat for the Magpies, with Casemiro and Marcus Rashford scoring in Erik ten Hag’s team’s 2-0 victory.
During the international break, Sven Botman caught a virus, which prevented him from making his Netherlands debut. He has, however, trained with Newcastle ahead of the match against Manchester United.
He should be able to replace Fabian Schar at center-back, who was not seen in Tuesday’s training video. However, it has been reported that he will be fine for the game on Sunday.
The same can be said of Nick Pope, who was forced to withdraw from the England squad due to injury. The goalkeeper was spotted in practice and will start between the posts.
The one and only change will see Joelinton return to the side. He has missed the Magpies’ previous two games due to suspension.
While Newcastle played well without him, Howe will be keen to get the Brazilian straight back into his starting XI. However, it does give a selection dilemma.
Newcastle’s midfield three have functioned well without Joelinton, and we anticipate Howe to start with the same trio as he did against Wolves and Nottingham Forest.
That means Joelinton will join the front three, taking Jacob Murphy’s place in the side. It is harsh on the £12million man, but he is the most disposable as Howe searches for a way to get big Joe back in the team.
Allan Saint-Maximin may have to switch positions if Joelinton starts in attack. If the £40 million man is named as one of the front three, we expect him to be on the left.
Saint-Maximin will be forced to play on the right, which is not his preferred position. However, he can still be dangerous down that flank as he attempts to regain form after a poor performance against Forest.
Last season, the Frenchman was outstanding in this game, and a repeat performance could propel Newcastle to victory.
Predicted XI vs Man United: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Bruno, Willock; Saint-Maximin, Isak, Joelinton.
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