Newcastle will look to get their first home win of the season against Brighton on Saturday evening.
The Magpies were soundly beaten by Liverpool last time out, despite taking the lead through Jetro Willems early on.
Nothing was expected from the trip to Anfield, but Steve Bruce needs three points against the Seagulls. Fortunately for him, he’s got more options with the return to fitness of Andy Carroll and Allan Saint-Maximin.
But should either of them start? Here is our predicted XI to face Brighton.
Schar is ready to go
The big worry for Newcastle was the fitness of Fabian Schar, but the Swiss defender will be fit to play. He’s key to Newcastle’s system and more often than not our biggest threat going forward.
The rest of the defence should remain the same. Emil Krafth struggled against Liverpool, but will likely keep his place in the XI. However, DeAndre Yedlin is on his way back meaning the pressure is on Krafth to keep the American out the team.
Shelvey gets another chance
Sean Longstaff’s injury meant Jonjo Shelvey got a start last week, and he’ll continue in the middle with the youngster set to miss out again.
This game should be more up Shelvey’s street, where he can get on the ball more and influence things. He’ll play alongside Isaac Hayden once again.
ASM and Carroll on the bench
Saint-Maximin and Carroll are in the squad for the Brighton clash, but must start on the bench.
The pair have had injury woes and are far from ready to start a Premier League game. Carroll should get some minutes to help take the pressure off Joelinton, but Saint-Maximin will only be needed if things aren’t going well against Graham Potter’s side.
Alongside Joelinton will be usual suspects Miguel Almiron and Christian Atsu. The pair need a big performance with ASM waiting in the wings.
Predicted lineup to face Brighton: Dubravka; Schar, Lascelles, Dummett; Krafth, Hayden, Shelvey, Willems; Almiron, Atsu, Joelinton.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
