Newcastle head to Elland Road today as they look to secure their first away win of the season against Leeds.
The Magpies remain in the bottom three, winning just a single game so far. That came against Burnley at St James’ Park in December.
We wasted a big opportunity last week versus Watford, and the trip to Leeds is equally as important. It could heavily influence what happens in the final week of the transfer window.
But with no more new additions, how will Eddie Howe lineup against Marcelo Bielsa’s men?
Sadly no change at the back for Newcastle
The Magpies did want to sign a new centre-back for the clash with Leeds. It was even reported that Diego Carlos could make his Toon debut at Elland Road.
Sadly, that won’t be happening. Newcastle’s owners haven’t been able to sign a defender this week, meaning Howe will have to go with what he’s got.
And we expect the Toon boss to stick with the same back four as last week. That might not be what fans want to see, but limited options mean change is unlikely.
Paul Dummett was a bright spark last week, and he’ll look to build on that performance when he comes up against Leeds star Raphinha.
There will be extra defensive cover on the bench though, with Javi Manquillo back from suspension.
Joe Willock in, Sean Longstaff out
We think Howe will only make one change to his team, and it should come in midfield.
Newcastle need to get players closer to Chris Wood. That was one of our issues last week. We rarely got the ball into the big man, and when he did he had no teammates around him.
Recalling Joe WIllock to the starting XI could help. The 22-year-old proved last season that he can play as a box-to-box midfielder, and his energy alongside Joelinton could give us more joy in the final third.
Sean Longstaff feels like the most likely to drop out. Joelinton is continuing to impress, while Jonjo Shelvey’s passing range will likely keep him in the side.
It would be a big chance for Willock, and one he desperately needs to take.
Predicted XI vs Leeds: Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Lascelles, Dummett; Fraser, Willock, Shelvey, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin; Wood.
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