Eddie Howe has some really big selection decisions to make ahead of Newcastle United’s game against Arsenal.
They are positive dilemmas for Eddie Howe, with so many players thriving during Newcastle’s 2-0 win over Chelsea.
The Magpies should have their confidence back after their Carabao Cup victory, and the timing is perfect ahead of a really tough Premier League game at St James’ Park.
Arsenal could be without Martin Odegaard again due to injury, but Mikel Arteta still has plenty of players who can hurt Newcastle. Plus, the Gunners will have added motivation to succeed given what happened on Tyneside last season.
It should be another thrilling encounter, and this is Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United starting XI to face Arsenal.
Dan Burn returns to the Newcastle defence
One of the big decisions that Howe must make is who starts at centre-back alongside Fabian Schar.
It would usually be Dan Burn, but Lloyd Kelly sent Howe a strong message with his performance against Chelsea in the cup.
However, it feels likely that Burn will return to the side. The Newcastle United manager is reliant on Burn’s height and physicality, and the 32-year-old should reclaim his place in the starting XI.
Elsewhere, Tino Livramento should start at right-back ahead of Emil Krafth, despite the Sweden international performing brilliantly in the Carabao Cup.
Different role for Bruno Guimaraes vs Arsenal
Howe made a big change against Chelsea. He opted to start Sandro Tonali in the middle of his midfield three, and that decision paid off.
Tonali had his best game ever for Newcastle, and should remain as the Magpies’ number six against Arsenal.
That would mean a different role for Bruno Guimaraes, who will almost certainly win his place back in the starting XI.
We are predicting that Bruno will start as the left-sided centre-midfielder, with Sean Longstaff playing on the other side of Tonali.
That means that Joe Willock would drop to the bench, which would be harsh after the £25million man played so well against Chelsea.
But he is a great option to have in reserve, and will be keen to make an impression against his former club.
Eddie Howe makes Joelinton decision
Howe will hopefully pick the same front three against Arsenal as the one that faced Chelsea.
That means Anthony Gordon on the right, Alexander Isak through the middle, and Joelinton on the left.
Isak will hope to make it three goals in three consecutive games, as he starts to re-find his form in front of goal.
For Joelinton, he will have a pivotal role on the left. He will bring balance to the Newcastle attack, as well as providing defensive solidity and helping Lewis Hall up against Bukayo Saka.
Predicted XI vs Arsenal: Pope; Livramento, Schar, Burn, Hall; Longstaff, Tonali, Bruno; Gordon, Isak, Joelinton.
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