Newcastle United face Tottenham in what is the first game of the new era at St James’ Park.
International breaks are normally boring, but this one wasn’t for Toon fans.
On October 7th, Amanda Staveley’s Saudi-backed consortium completed a deal to buy the club from Mike Ashley, leading to wild celebrations from supporters.
Those celebrations will continue against Spurs in front of a sold out St James’ Park.
But who will Steve Bruce start with for the first game since the takeover?
Jamaal Lascelles back in defence
Ahead of the game, Bruce confirmed that Jamaal Lascelles is available once again.
The captain missed the previous two games due to injury, but seems likely to lead the side out on an exciting afternoon for the club. He could take the place of Federico Fernandez at the heart of the defence.
Lascelles was one of the first players to react to the takeover, calling on fans to be ‘United’ ahead of this special journey.
No change in midfield
Despite limping off against Wolves, Joe Willock is fit for the game against Spurs.
He should keep his place in midfield, alongside Isaac Hayden and Sean Longstaff.
The trio will have added competition though, with Jonjo Shelvey back from a groin problem and a contender to be on the bench.
Callum Wilson returns
Another player who is back from injury is Callum Wilson.
And with Miguel Almiron’s international exploits likely leading to him starting on the bench, Wilson could walk straight back into the starting XI.
His return should force Allan Saint-Maximin out wide, where hopefully he’ll be just as dangerous as he has been through the middle this season.
Predicted XI vs Spurs: Darlow; Manquillo, Lascelles, Clark, Ritchie; Willock, Hayden, Longstaff; Saint-Maximin, Wilson, Joelinton.
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