Eddie Howe is predicted to make seven changes for Newcastle United’s Premier League game against Arsenal.
The Newcastle United squad is being put to the test as of late, with the Magpies enduring an extremely busy schedule in multiple competitions.
Eddie Howe is managing the situation well, making seven changes for Newcastle’s win over Bradford City in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.
More changes are anticipated for Sunday, and this is Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United XI to face Arsenal at St James’ Park.
Sven Botman on the bench for Newcastle United vs Arsenal
Howe’s biggest decision comes in defence, and it surrounds Sven Botman.
The £35million defender has played very well over Newcastle’s last two games, but it is unthinkable that Dan Burn won’t return to the starting XI against Arsenal. That could be bad news for Botman, unless the Magpies utilise a back five like they did away to Bournemouth.
But that feels unlikely at home to the Gunners, which could result in Botman being benched. That will be a bitter pill to swallow, but it must be followed by a start in the Champions League a few days later.
Howe has to make difficult decisions, and this could be one of them.
- Who is Sven Botman? Get the lowdown on Newcastle United’s Dutch defensive dynamo
Sandro Tonali returns for Newcastle
Sandro Tonali got a deserved rest on Wednesday night. He was among the Newcastle substitutes against Bradford, but did not feature.
The 25-year-old is hopefully feeling refreshed ahead of his inevitable return to the starting XI, where he should join Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
The Brazilian duo will be full of confidence after Wednesday night, with Bruno getting two assists and Joelinton scoring two goals. They were both outstanding, and will hope to continue their good form against Arsenal.
Lewis Miley impressed against Bradford, but is poised to drop to the bench.
Anthony Gordon’s Premier League comeback
Anthony Gordon’s suspension is now over, which means he can finally return to Premier League action.
And it should be an immediate return, with Geordie Boot Boys predicting the Scouser to start on the left of attack against Mikel Arteta’s side.
It will be the first chance for him to start alongside Nick Woltemade, who impressed as a substitute in the Carabao Cup.
They could be joined by Jacob Murphy, who was not even in the squad for the Bradford game. Murphy has two assists to his name this season, and will aim to add to his tally at Arsenal’s expense.
Predicted XI vs Arsenal: Pope; Trippier, Thiaw, Burn, Livramento; Bruno, Tonali, Joelinton; Murphy, Woltemade, Gordon.
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