Newcastle United are finally set to face Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup, as Eddie Howe prepares to rotate.
After last week’s game was postponed, Newcastle United will now face Wimbledon in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night. However, it is at St James’ Park rather than Cherry Red Records Stadium due to the damage to Wimbledon’s pitch following last week’s flooding.
The winner will get a home tie against Chelsea, and Eddie Howe will be keen to ensure it is his side that faces the Blues as he aims to end Newcastle United’s trophy drought.
However, he will also be mindful about rotating his team against his League Two opponents.
With that in mind, this is Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle United starting XI to face Wimbledon on Tuesday night.
Eddie Howe makes Sandro Tonali decision
Newcastle United fans will be eager to see Sandro Tonali to start, after the midfielder excelled against Manchester City on Saturday.
However, the 24-year-old did suffer with cramp in the latter stages of that game, and Eddie Howe has said he will make a late decision over Tonali.
It feels likely that he will not start against Wimbledon. Newcastle do not want to overload Tonali, so it would therefore be wise to drop him back to the bench and preserve him for the upcoming Premier League game against Everton.
That would give Sean Longstaff the chance to start, while Joe Willock should also return to the side.
Big chance for Newcastle United attacker
Miguel Almiron has only started one game this season. That came in the previous round of the Carabao Cup against Nottingham Forest.
It has been a frustrating start to the season for Almiron, who should get the opportunity to start on Tuesday night.
Ahead of the game, Howe said it is a ‘big moment’ for Almiron to showcase his talent, which suggests he will be in the starting XI against Wimbledon.
He will likely take Jacob Murphy’s place on the right, with Harvey Barnes continuing on the left.
First Newcastle United start for Will Osula
While Howe is going to take the Carabao Cup very seriously, this game is the perfect chance for him to give Will Osula his first Newcastle United start.
The £10million signing has only made one substitute appearance since joining the Magpies, and that came in the 3-1 defeat to Fulham.
Tuesday’s game against League Two Wimbledon is the ideal moment for Howe to put his trust in the 21-year-old. Howe has high hopes for Osula, and hopefully we see why in the Carabao Cup.
Alexander Isak is not available due to injury, while Newcastle might be tempted to drop Anthony Gordon to the bench in order to ensure he is fit for this weekend’s game against Everton.
Predicted XI vs Wimbledon: Pope; Livramento, Krafth, Burn, Kelly; Longstaff, Bruno, Willock; Almiron, Osula, Barnes.
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