Newcastle can reach the magic 40 point mark with a win over Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.
It’s set to be another big game at St James’ Park, with the Magpies chasing six home wins in a row. In contrast, Patrick Vieira’s side will be hoping to bounce back after their FA Cup semi final defeat to Chelsea.
With players performing well amid a busy run of fixtures, Eddie Howe will be pondering whether to stick or twist with his side. This is how we predict the Magpies will lineup against the Eagles.
Still no place for Jamaal Lascelles
Newcastle switched off defensively once against Leicester, and it gave the Foxes the opening goal of the game. However, that was the only blip in another solid defensive showing from the Magpies.
Howe has resolved our woes at the back, so it seems unlikely that there will be any changes when Crystal Palace head to the North East.
That means Jamaal Lascelles will once again have to settle for a place on the bench. He hasn’t started since the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.
A rest for Jonjo Shelvey
While Howe may be reluctant to make too many changes, he may be keen to freshen up his midfield.
Joe Willock came off the bench and played a pivotal role in Bruno Guimaraes’ winner, which could earn him a start against Palace.
But who should he replace? Bruno is undroppable given his recent performances, while Joelinton’s ball-winning ability could keep him in the side.
That means Jonjo Shelvey’s place is probably most at risk. The 30-year-old doesn’t deserve to lose his place, but fresh legs in the middle of the park could be important against an emotionally drained Palace team.
Predicted XI vs Palace: Dubravka; Krafth, Schar, Burn, Targett; Almiron, Willock, Bruno, Joelinton, Saint-Maximin; Wood.
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