After a positive trip to Goodison Park, Newcastle are back at St James’ Park as they prepare to welcome Wolves.
The Magpies put the disappointment of the week before behind them with a spirited display against Everton, earning a well deserved point.
When Newcastle were grinding out a draw, Wolves produced the shock of the week, beating Chelsea 2-1. The result put an end to a horrific run of from for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, who will be confident ahead of their trip to the North East.
Rafa Benitez made changes against Everton, but what will he do when Wolves head to town?
Dummett in contention to face Wolves
Paul Dummett has missed the past three games due to injury, but could return to face the newly promoted side.
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Speaking ahead of the game, Benitez confirmed that Dummett is in contention after returning to training. The defender has been a huge miss on the left side of defence, and should walk back into the team if he’s deemed fit enough.
Jamaal Lascelles returned to the side against Everton, and should partner Federico Fernandez at the back. Fabian Schar is ruled out due to suspension. Meanwhile, DeAndre Yedlin will continue at right-back.
Ritchie to return?
Matt Ritchie missed the midweek game due to suspension, but is back and available to face Wolves. In his last appearance, Ritchie played as left wing-back, but should start in midfield against Wolves. With Newcastle at home, it’s unlikely that Benitez will start with five at the back.
However, if things aren’t going our way, we can change the system mid-game. Dummett is capable of playing at centre-back, then Ritchie can drop in on the left side of defence.
Should Atsu and Murphy keep their places?
It was a shock to see both Christian Atsu and Jacob Murphy start on Wednesday. The pair did okay, with Murphy providing an assist and Atsu getting himself in some great positions. If he was more clinical, the Ghanaian could have been the match-winner.
However, it would be no surprise for both of them to miss out. Kenedy is back fit after missing the Everton game with a toe injury, and should reclaim his place in the starting XI.
Salomon Rondon will lead the line, hoping to add to the three Premier League goals he’s scored so far.
Predicted lineup to face Wolves: Dubravka; Yedlin, Lascelles, Fernandez, Dummett; Ritchie, Ki, Diame, Kenedy; Perez, Rondon