Premier League games are coming thick and fast as Newcastle face Southampton at St Mary’s tonight.
The Magpies are on a fantastic run, but have a real challenge on their hands to remain unbeaten over the next seven days.
Eddie Howe’s side face three tricky games in a week, but his players should be confident given their recent upturn in fortunes.
But will Howe shuffle his pack as the fixtures begin to pile up?
No changes at the back
While we do have defensive reinforcements in reserve, it feels unlikely that Howe will make any changes at the back against Southampton.
Newcastle once again defended brilliantly in the win over Brighton. We restricted their chances, despite the Seagulls dominating possession.
Our back four played well, and deserve to keep their place. That means Emil Krafth starts over Javi Manquillo once again, and Jamaal Lascelles continues to sit on the bench.
Their time will come again though – possibly at the weekend against Chelsea.
It’s time to talk about Bruno
So far he’s been limited to substitute appearances, but Thursday could finally be the time we see Bruno Guimaraes start his first game for Newcastle.
Newcastle’s midfield have worked tirelessly over the past couple of months, so a fresh pair of legs in the middle might be a good idea – especially against an energetic Southampton.
It’s a hard decision, but we’re going with Jonjo Shelvey to make way versus the Saints. The 30-year-old has been in excellent form, but Joelinton and Joe Willock’s energy off the ball perhaps gives them the edge against Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side.
Chance for Almiron
Ahead of the game, Howe admitted that Allan Saint-Maximin still isn’t 100% fit. That suggests he won’t start tonight.
However, we do think there will still be a change out wide.
Howe will be keen to freshen up his side and rotate, so we believe Miguel Almiron could make his first start since December 19th. It would be in place of Jacob Murphy, who very nearly scored against Brighton, only to be denied by the post.
Predicted XI to face Southampton: Dubravka; Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett; Almiron, Willock, Guimaraes, Joelinton, Fraser; Wood.
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