Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is predicted to go full strength as his side take on Sunderland in the first Tyne-Wear derby since 2016.
The Magpies are heading to Sunderland in the FA Cup, which is no surprise given the other ridiculous cup draws that Newcastle received this season.
They were put in the group of death in the Champions League and played a ‘big six’ club in every round of the Carabao Cup, so it is hardly a shock to see them drawn away to the Black Cats.
It is a massive game for Eddie Howe, who is under a bit of pressure from the mainstream media. Questions are being asked, although his support on Tyneside remains incredibly strong.
It will be even stronger if his side can beat Sunderland on Saturday, and this is our predicted Newcastle starting XI
Kieran Trippier fit to face Sunderland
Newcastle’s big injury doubt heading into the game is Kieran Trippier. He missed the defeat to Liverpool, and Howe confirmed afterwards that he was unsure when the 33-year-old would return.
However, it has been reported that Trippier could still be passed fit, and we are tipping the £12million defender to start at the Stadium Of Light.
That would see Tino Livramento drop to the bench. That is a decision that would infuriate a large portion of the Toon Army, but it is difficult to envision Dan Burn not starting against Sunderland.
With Trippier on the right and Burn on the left, it would mean that the 21-year-old is on the bench, but that at least gives us some depth for later in the game – something we have rarely had over the past month.
Miguel Almiron returns to Newcastle XI
Another decision that will not delight a lot of fans is Miguel Almiron starting.
He was dropped to the bench on Monday, then severely struggled to have an impact after coming on in place of Lewis Miley.
But the 29-year-old will surely start against Sunderland, at a time when fans are largely unconvinced by his current form.
His performances have not been great, but a goal in the derby could really help get supporters back on side and give him the confidence boost he needs.
Predicted XI vs Sunderland: Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Longstaff, Bruno, Joelinton; Almiron, Isak, Gordon.
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