After back-to-back 0-0 draws, Newcastle can’t afford an FA Cup calamity away to Oxford.
The Magpies couldn’t book their place in the fifth round in front of a sold out St James’ Park, so will have to head to the Kassam Stadium and hope for a result live on the BBC, who sense a giant killing.
So who will Steve Bruce select for what is a huge game for his side?
Schar and Lejeune return
Schar started the first game against Oxford, while Lejeune hasn’t been seen since his stoppage time heroics against Everton.
Newcastle lack ability on the ball at the back right now, and one of Schar or Lejeune should be starting in the Premier League. This game is a huge opportunity for both players to prove why they deserve a place against Arsenal on February 16th.
More needed from Ritchie and Yedlin
That means Matt Ritchie and DeAndre Yedlin should continue at wing-back. The pair need to improve massively with the new recruits breathing down their necks.
Both players were guilty of poor delivery against Norwich, which contributed to another toothless attacking performance.
Atsu in, ASM out
While Bruce will name a strong side for the FA Cup, Allan Saint-Maximin should start on the bench.
The Frenchman hasn’t looked his best in the past couple of games, struggling to get back to his best since returning from injury.
With the winter break ahead, Bruce should consider keeping Saint-Maximin on the bench and only using him in case of emergency.
In his place should be Christian Atsu, who has been heavily criticised for his recent poor performances. He should have enough quality against the League One opposition though, like he did in the previous round at Rochdale.
Predicted lineup: Darlow; Schar, Lascelles, Lejeune; Yedlin, M.Longstaff, S.Longstaff, Ritchie; Atsu, Almiron, Joelinton.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
