It is turning out to be an incredible week for Newcastle United, and it could get even better when they face Southampton on Sunday.
Eddie Howe‘s side have scored 10 goals in two games, with Newcastle beating Spurs 6-1 and Everton 4-1.
Next up is bottom of the league, with Southampton arriving on Tyneside to face a team that has beaten them on three occasions already this season.
But Howe will ensure that complacency is not an issue, and this is our predicted Newcastle lineup to face Southampton on Sunday
Dan Burn comes back into the Newcastle starting lineup
Eddie Howe made three changes to his side for the game against Everton, one of which saw Matt Targett come in for Dan Burn, who had been suffering from illness.
While Howe admitted that he was happy with Targett’s performance at Goodison Park, we expect Burn to be recalled to the starting XI.
The £13million man had done nothing to justify losing his place – it was just unfortunate that he was not deemed fit enough to start.
He should return on Sunday, joining the usual suspects in defence. They will be keen to keep a clean sheet, having failed to do so since the 2-0 win over Manchester United.
Sean Longstaff misses out
Sean Longstaff picked up an ankle problem against Everton which eventually forced him off. However, he did his best to stay on – despite Kieran Trippier’s protests.
After the game, Howe stated that he hopes the injury is ‘not too bad‘, but was unable to state whether or not he will be fit to face Southampton. We anticipate him missing out, meaning Joelinton will revert back to his midfield role.
That creates a vacancy on the left of attack, which will hopefully get taken up by Anthony Gordon. He was only given a few minutes of action on his Goodison Park return, and will be itching to start his first ever game at St James’ Park.
Eddie Howe sticks with Callum Wilson against Southampton
As has often been the case in recent weeks, Howe’s biggest decision will be who plays up front.
Callum Wilson was restored to the side on Thursday night, and took his chance with both hands. He bagged a brace, netting his 12th and 13th goals of the season. He is now the Magpies’ top scorer, and this is his best ever campaign since joining the club.
He clearly has momentum, and should be rewarded with back-to-back starts. The 31-year-old has made it clear that he wants to start, and his performance against Everton justified his confidence.
It means Alexander Isak is on the bench, which is somewhat staggering after his outrageous contribution for Jacob Murphy’s goal during the week.
Predicted XI to face Southampton: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Willock, Bruno, Joelinton; Almiron, Wilson, Gordon.
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