Newcastle’s incredible run can continue on Saturday when they welcome West Ham to St James’ Park.
The 2-1 win over Burnley made it three wins on the bounce, lifting the Magpies to 13th, one place above the Hammers.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side have had a mixed start to the season, and were hammered 4-0 by league leaders Manchester City last time out. With Newcastle in good form, fans will be expecting another victory.
Should Lascelles return for West Ham clash?
Newcastle’s defence performed brilliantly yet again against Burnley. Rafa Benitez deployed a back five, with Fabian Schar, Federico Fernandez and Ciaran Clark operating at centre-back.
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Jamaal Lascelles missed the trip to Turf Moor, but Benitez stated in his pre-match press conference that he has almost everyone available.
While Lascelles is captain, it’s probably best to keep him on the bench. The Magpies’ defence were solid on Monday, so it may be disruptive to make changes.
Will Benitez stick with 5-4-1?
Paul Dummett is still ruled out due to injury, meaning Benitez has a big decision to make.
Clark replaced the full-back on Monday, which saw a change of system. Due to its success, the manager could stick with his new formation. And if it doesn’t work, Clark can shift over to left-back and we can revert to our typical 4-4-1-1.
Another chance for Rondon
Salomon Rondon struggled against Burnley, but should keep his place in the side as he builds up his match fitness. Joselu is breathing down his neck though, coming so close to getting on the score-sheet on Monday.
Rondon might get a bit more joy up against the West Ham defence, so should keep his place in the starting XI.
Predicted starting XI: Dubravka; Schar, Fernandez, Clark; Yedlin, Ki, Diame, Ritchie; Kenedy, Rondon Perez