After a boring international break, the Premier League is back with Newcastle facing an unenviable trip to Liverpool.
The Magpies head to Anfield for the early kickoff, rocked by the news that Sean Longstaff is out due to injury. The odds were already stacked against Newcastle, but this makes things even more difficult.
Injury will force Steve Bruce to make at least one change to the team that drew 1-1 with Watford, but which XI should he pick to take on the European champions?
No change at the back
With Matt Ritchie still injured, Bruce has no reason to change the back five in front of Martin Dubravka. Jetro Willems showed positive signs against Watford, but will need to be alert defensively to keep Mo Salah quiet.
Paul Dummett will continue as the left centre-back, returning to the ground where he conceded one of the softest penalties you’ll see last season.
Jamaal Lascelles, Fabian Schar and Emil Krafth should make up the rest of the defence. Schar scored against Watford, and continued his good form on international duty with a goal and an assist.
Shelvey to replace Longstaff
In an ideal world, Longstaff would be playing alongside Isaac Hayden.
But alas, the youngster picked up an ankle injury in training. This opens up a space in Bruce’s starting XI, and it should go to Jonjo Shelvey.
He isn’t the most disciplined, but his ability on the ball could really help us on the break. This could be a massive chance for the £12 million midfielder, who hasn’t started Newcastle’s last two league games.
The other option is Ki Sung-Yueng, who is a bit more reliable. However, he’s not the most mobile either, so Shelvey’s x-factor should give him the edge as he prepares to return to his old club.
The new three amigos?
Last season it was all about Salomon Rondon, Ayoze Perez and Miguel Almiron – the three amigos. Well two have departed, so Christian Atsu and Joelinton will start alongside the Paraguayan.
Almiron got a big confidence boost during the week with his first Paraguay goal, but he may not be too fresh after a lengthy trip away.
Atsu has shown real promise since his return from injury, while Joelinton needs a performance like the one he put in against Tottenham if we’re to get anything from this game.
Predicted lineup to face Liverpool: Dubravka; Krafth, Schar, Lascelles, Dummett, Willems; Almiron, Shelvey, Hayden, Atsu; Joelinton.
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