Newcastle United must shut out all of the transfer talk as they prepare to face Fulham on Saturday night.
The winter break is over, and the FA Cup beckons for Eddie Howe and his players. This is a really important fixture for the Magpies, as they look to go deep into a competition that they have not won since 1955.
Newcastle will put out a very strong starting XI, but it might not be a strong bench as Howe’s side continues to be hindered by injuries. And there certainly won’t be any new signings involved, as the January transfer window is proving to be very difficult.
With that in mind, this is our predicted Newcastle XI to face Fulham in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend
Kieran Trippier starts with Tino Livramento on the bench
Over the past week, Kieran Trippier has been heavily linked with a move away from St James’ Park. Bayern Munich have been chasing his signature, but have now called off their interest.
The 33-year-old is going to remain on Tyneside, and will certainly start at Craven Cottage. He will captain Newcastle on Saturday night, despite Tino Livramento being available again.
The defender missed the defeat to Man City due to illness, but has been spotted in training this week. However, it feels likely that the 21-year-old will only be named on the bench, rather than in the starting lineup.
Bruno Guimaraes fit for Fulham
There was concern surrounding Bruno Guimaraes following the defeat to Man City. He hurt his hamstring that night, and was unsure about it in the immediate aftermath.
But he has fortunately avoided injury, meaning he will be good to go against Fulham. It’s a good job too, as Newcastle only have three fit centre-midfielders right now.
Bruno will start alongside Lewis Miley and Sean Longstaff, while there will be no support from Joe White. He is back from Crewe, but is cup-tied for the FA Cup.
Miguel Almiron on the right for Newcastle despite exit talk
Miguel Almiron is another player who has been linked with leaving Newcastle, but it looks like he is staying put.
The £21million man has told the Magpies that he does not want to leave, and he will be eager to prove why he never should have even been considered for a departure.
He will start on the right of attack, as it remains unclear whether or not Jacob Murphy will be available after his shoulder injury.
Predicted XI vs Fulham: Dubravka; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Miley, Bruno, Longstaff; Almiron, Isak, Gordon.
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