Newcastle United are back in action after the international break as they prepare to welcome Manchester United to St James’ Park.
It is a huge game for Eddie Howe, with Newcastle looking to move back into the top four with a win over Man United.
It is a chance for revenge too, with this Sunday’s game a repeat of February’s Carabao Cup final. The game at Wembley ended in disappointment for the Magpies, with Casemiro and Marcus Rashford scoring in the 2-0 win for Erik ten Hag’s team.
Now it is all about the Premier League, and this is Newcastle’s predicted starting lineup to face Man United
Sven Botman fit to start for Newcastle
Sven Botman suffered a virus during the international break which stopped him from making his Netherlands debut. However, he has trained with Newcastle ahead of the game against Manchester United.
He should be fit to take his place at centre-back alongside Fabian Schar, who was not spotted in Tuesday’s training video. However, it has been reported that he will be fine for Sunday’s game.
The same has been said about Nick Pope, who pulled out of the England squad due to injury. The goalkeeper has been spotted in training, and will start in between the sticks.
Joelinton starts against Man United
The one and only change will see Joelinton return to the side. He has missed the Magpies’ previous two games due to suspension.
While Newcastle played well without him, Howe will be keen to get the Brazilian straight back into his starting XI. However, it does give a selection dilemma.
Newcastle’s midfield three have functioned well without Joelinton, and we anticipate Howe to start with the same trio as he did against Wolves and Nottingham Forest.
That means Joelinton will join the front three, taking Jacob Murphy’s place in the side. It is harsh on the £12million man, but he is the most disposable as Howe searches for a way to get big Joe back in the team.
New role predicted for Allan Saint-Maximin
Joelinton starting in attack could lead to a change of position for Allan Saint-Maximin. If the £40million man is named as part of the front three, we anticipate it will be on the left.
That will force Saint-Maximin to play on the right, which is not his preferred position. However, he can still be dangerous down that flank, as he looks to regain form following a disappointing performance against Forest.
The Frenchman was excellent in this fixture last season, and a similar performance could propel Newcastle to victory.
Predicted XI vs Man United: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Bruno, Willock; Saint-Maximin, Isak, Joelinton.
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