It’s Newcastle United vs Everton on Wednesday night at St James’ Park, and Eddie Howe is expected to make changes to his team.
The Magpies face three tough games in the space of a week, having drawn with 0-0 with Manchester United on Sunday. Next up is Everton in the midweek fixture, before a trip to the capital to face Tottenham at the weekend.
With games coming thick and fast, the Everton tie is a good chance for Howe to shuffle his pack. The Toon manager will be keen to keep his team fresh, as they look continue their bright start to the season.
Newcastle are yet to lose at home this season, and this is the team we expect to start vs Everton
Chance for Jamaal Lascelles vs Everton
Jamaal Lascelles appeared off the bench at the weekend, replacing Fabian Schar in the dying stages at Old Trafford.
The 28-year-old captain has rarely featured in the Premier League this season, but we expect him to get an opportunity against Everton.
Howe made a similar change during the last midweek game (the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool), and could do the same on Wednesday night.
Schar limped off on Sunday and, while he says he is fit to face Everton, could benefit from the rest before returning against Tottenham.
We also anticipate one more change in defence, with Howe rotating his left-back. That means Matt Targett coming in for Dan Burn.
Joe Willock returns to the Newcastle team
Joe Willock started on the bench on Sunday due to illness, but will hopefully be fit to start on Wednesday. His energy and dribbling ability will be important against the Toffees.
Howe’s midfield put a real shift in against Man United, meaning a change might be required to avoid fatigue. With that in mind, Willock should start ahead of Sean Longstaff.
Jonjo Shelvey should be on the bench again. Hopefully we see him get some minutes as a substitute in the second half.
Ryan Fraser back in the starting XI
A fourth and final change should see Ryan Fraser come in for Jacob Murphy. The Scotland international hasn’t started since the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, and will be keen for an opportunity against Everton.
He was outstanding in the same fixture last season, scoring his first ever Premier League goal for the Magpies. A similar performance this season would be very welcome from a player who is yet to get going in the 2022/23 campaign.
Predicted Newcastle XI vs Everton: Pope; Trippier, Lascelles, Botman, Targett; Willock, Bruno, Joelinton; Almiron, Fraser, Wilson.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
