Newcastle United are gearing up to take on Birmingham City in the FA Cup fourth round.
The Magpies are looking to kickstart another fantastic cup run this season, but by no means is it an easy task.
Newcastle United travel to League One leaders Birmingham City, who have lost just once at home all season. Toon boss Eddie Howe will be hoping that his players will be able to hit the ground running from Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win against Arsenal, which moved them into a second Carabao Cup final in three seasons.
There has been a slew of injury concerns ahead of the game; Howe confirmed Sven Botman will miss the Birmingham game after picking up a knock against Arsenal. However, it is not something that is set to keep him out of Newcastle’s first-team squad for as long as he was before.
Elsewhere, Joelinton is out with a knee problem – Joelinton was spotted in the stands in a retro Newcastle shirt against Arsenal.
With Newcastle set to continue their FA Cup campaign, Howe has singled out a forgotten star for his work behind the scenes.
Eddie Howe praises Newcastle goalkeeper John Ruddy
John Ruddy is yet to make a senior appearance for Newcastle after signing for the Magpies in the summer. At 38, Ruddy is not expected to be Howe’s first-choice shot-stopper, but he has still put the work in behind the scenes to be ready.
Ruddy is a former Birmingham player and could be included in the matchday squad for his return to his former club. However, it was revealed that Ruddy was signed to improve Newcastle’s training standards – there is a hope that Ruddy never has to play a game for the club during his time on Tyneside.
Newcastle goalkeeper Mark Gillespie was praised by Howe for a similar reason – the 32-year-old has barely played for Newcastle but was credited for his work in training.
In Howe’s pre-match press conference, he was asked about whether Ruddy’s experience would be used to get the advantage in the game.
“He’s had a long and illustrious career,” he said.
“John has been brilliant behind the scenes. He has fully embraced everything we’ve asked him to do. He’s at youth games. He’s really invested in trying to help people.
“Every player I’m sure he’s used his experience in some way. John has been a vital part of what we’ve done this year.”
Eddie Howe will rotate Newcastle squad against Birmingham
After the win against Arsenal on Wednesday, it is no surprise that his players are suffering with fatigue after their efforts.
Newcastle’s squad depth is not as good as it was before after Miguel Almiron and Lloyd Kelly were sold in January, despite the short-term pain, the club believe that they will be in a better position with PSR after making those sales.
The Magpies may have to look towards the youth setup for more depth against Birmingham, the likes of Cathal Heffernan, Garang Kuol, and Alfie Harrison could all play if Howe feels confident enough.
Players like William Osula will be expected to start against Birmingham, the 21-year-old scored his first Newcastle goal against Bromley in the FA Cup in January. Elsewhere, young Lewis Miley and midfielder Sean Longstaff will be in contention for starts.
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