Newcastle travel to Morecambe on Wednesday evening in Carabao Cup action, where Steve Bruce’s men will attempt to navigate their way through to the fourth round.
The Magpies suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat at home to Brighton last time out, so we expect Bruce to ring the changes to rest those first-teamers and also hand opportunities to fringe players.
Here’s who we think the Toon Army boss will pick to play the League Two outfit…
Mark Gillespie in goal, more game-time for Ciaran Clark
After a stunning display on his debut against Blackburn, Bruce simply can’t leave Gillespie out for this one.
Ahead of the self-confessed Newcastle fan, we think Ciaran Clark should get some more minutes in the tank having shone in the last round after a long period out. Bruce singled him out for praise.
Emil Krafth, DeAndre Yedlin and Paul Dummett could make up the rest of the backline.
Big chance for Dan Barlaser?
23-year-old Dan Barlaser is a player who has plenty of Championship admirers according to The Chronicle.
However, if he is to make it at Newcastle, he needs to show Bruce he can deliver the goods against League Two opposition.
In our view, if he doesn’t then we could potentially end up seeking a move for the midfielder before the transfer deadline.
His name was mentioned among seven players who Bruce is reportedly attempting to offload.
Still no Miguel Almiron
The Paraguay international hasn’t started a Premier League game this season, despite impressing in glimpses.
He came off the bench against West Ham to get an assist, and also grabbed another in the last round against Blackburn.
His introduction against Brighton also brought a bit of energy to our play. However, we think Bruce should leave him out once again for this game, as we would like to see him rested for the game against Tottenham on Sunday.
Predicted lineup: Gillespie; Yedlin, Clark, Krafth, Manquillo; Barlaser, Longstaff, Fraser, Ritchie; Murphy, Joelinton.
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