Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Newcastle manager Steve Bruce has confirmed that Matt Ritchie and Jonjo Shelvey will play a part against Crystal Palace.
The pair weren’t involved against Chelsea, with Shelvey being left on the bench and Ritchie being left out of the matchday squad, but Bruce has now confirmed that they will be involved on Friday.
“Callum Wilson will be fit. He will be available which we’re delighted about. Ryan Fraser is still a week or so away. Jamaal Lascelles is a doubt. Matt Ritchie and Jonjo Shelvey are both OK and will feature,” The manager said.
Newcastle certainly needed to change things up after losing 2-0 to Chelsea, and the returns of Ritchie and Shelvey will certainly bring about change.
It remains to be seen where the duo will be utilised in this game, as Bruce has recently favoured a five at the back formation which could see Ritchie and Shelvey played in slightly different roles than they’re used to.
Of course, the manager could revert back to a more familiar formation, which could see the pair played in their preferred positions, but that remains to be seen.
It will be interesting to see who drops out of the side to make way for Ritchie and Shelvey, but one would imagine that those who are at risk are Jamal Lewis, Jacob Murphy, Isaac Hayden and Sean Longstaff.
Hopefully, the pair can come back into the team and make an instant impact.
