Eddie Howe has a massive selection dilemma ahead of Newcastle United’s game against Brentford.
It is a positive one though, with plenty of Newcastle players vying for multiple positions in Howe‘s side.
The Toon boss made two changes during the week for the trip to West Ham and they paid off. Callum Wilson and Joelinton came in, and they both scored two goals in the 5-1 win.
Howe’s decision was justified, and now he must ponder whether he should make any changes for Saturday’s game against the Bees.
The Toon boss has proven he is willing to rotate, and this is our predicted Newcastle starting lineup to face Brentford
Matt Targett predicted to start against Brentford
While Newcastle’s defence has been brilliant this season, we are anticipating a change against Brentford.
Dan Burn did not have his best game at the London Stadium, and seriously struggled when Newcastle faced the Hammers.
That could give Howe the encouragement he needs to recall Matt Targett, who has not started a Premier League game since September. The 27-year-old came off the bench during the week, and could provide fresh energy down Newcastle’s left.
Joelinton and Callum Wilson retain their places in the Newcastle XI
Howe brought in Joelinton and Wilson against West Ham, and we expect them to keep their place in the side. They simply played too well.
Joelinton always plays well against Brentford, scoring twice when we faced them last season. That will give him confidence to score again, and if he does it will mean he has enjoyed his best ever campaign in front of goal for Newcastle.
The big decision is whether Howe goes with Wilson or Alexander Isak. We expect it will be the number nine who gets the nod, and he will be full of confidence after his midweek brace. Wilson will now have his eyes on overtaking Miguel Almiron as the Magpies’ top scorer this season.
Second Toon start for Anthony Gordon
Anthony Gordon has looked sharp off the bench over the past week, and we hope it sees him rewarded with a start at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The 22-year-old has only started once before for the Magpies, but is already buying into Eddie Howe’s ethos. He is working extremely hard off the ball, and his efforts helped Isak score against West Ham on Wednesday.
It would be great to see him included in he starting XI on Saturday, most likely in place of Jacob Murphy, who has been playing very well in fairness to him.
But rotation is important amid this busy period, and we expect to see at least two changes.
Predicted XI to face Brentford: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Targett; Longstaff, Bruno, Joelinton; Gordon, Wilson, Saint-Maximin.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
