Newcastle United are in the Carabao Cup final, but must now turn their attention to the FA Cup.
After Newcastle’s incredible win over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-final, next on the agenda is the FA Cup fourth round clash with Birmingham City.
This will be a very different game. The Magpies are away to a League One side, and will need to ensure they are in the right place mentally after the highs of Wednesday night.
It will be a tough game for Eddie Howe to prepare for, and this is Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United starting XI to face Birmingham.
Nick Pope returns to the Newcastle XI
For the first time since the Magpies’ defeat to Brentford in December, it feels likely that Nick Pope will start in goal.
The £10million goalkeeper missed 10 matches with a knee injury, but has been an unused substitute for Newcastle’s last three games.
Pope should replace Martin Dubravka on Saturday, as Eddie Howe rotates in between the sticks.
There could also be rotation at the back, with Tino Livramento and Matt Targett coming in for Kieran Trippier and Lewis Hall as Newcastle revert to a back four.
Fresh FA Cup chance for Lewis Miley
Geordie Boot Boys are predicting that Eddie Howe will name a completely new midfield against Birmingham on Saturday.
It feels extremely likely that Lewis Miley will start as the ‘six’, having excelled in the previous round against Bromley. Miley was Newcastle’s best player that day, and deserves another opportunity to start.
He should be joined by Sean Longstaff and Joe Willock, both of which will be pushing to start in the Premier League during Joelinton’s injury absence.
Eddie Howe makes striker decision against Birmingham City
Newcastle United’s lack of wide options will be exposed against the Blues, as it is difficult to envision who could start on the left and right wing instead of Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy.
They may have to start yet again, but they will be joined by a different striker.
Newcastle have Callum Wilson back from injury, while Will Osula is also pushing to start. Howe is suddenly blessed with options up front, which should result in Alexander Isak being rested.
While Wilson will be desperate to start, it might be too soon for him after his return to fitness. Therefore, Osula should get the chance to lead the line.
Predicted XI vs Birmingham: Pope; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Targett; Longstaff, Miley, Willock; Murphy, Osula, Gordon.
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