3 surprise changes Newcastle boss Eddie Howe could make against Wolves tonight

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Eddie Howe could make plenty of changes when Newcastle United face Wolves tonight.

The Toon boss will be looking for a response after last weekend’s 5-1 defeat to Tottenham. It was a really poor performance from the Magpies, despite going in front thanks to a Fabian Schar free kick.

Newcastle collapsed in the second half, with a performance reminiscent of the Steve Bruce era. Howe’s side need to respond tonight, as they make their long awaited return to St James’ Park.

Fans will be keen to see Bruno Guimaraes make his first home start for the club, which feels incredibly likely.

But could Howe surprise supporters? Here are three tactical changes the manager could make.

Newcastle change to five at the back

Throughout the season, Wolves have played five at the back to great effect. Bruno Lage’s side have only conceded 27 goals so far – a record only bettered by the Premier League’s top three.

Wolves are playing very well this season, which could convince Howe to match them up tactically. That would mean shifting from a back four to a back five.

The Magpies did that against Chelsea last month – a decision that almost paid off. Sadly, we were denied by a late Kai Havertz goal.

If Howe does decide to go with five at the back, it could open the door for Jamaal Lascelles to return to the starting XI.

Advanced Joelinton

With Bruno likely to play from the off, that gives Howe a bit more flexibility in midfield. The Brazilian’s first start came against Southampton, where he played alongside Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock.

However, Howe pushed Willock into a more advanced role. The 22-year-old got closer to Chris Wood while the other two midfielders sat back.

But with Willock potentially out injured, could the advanced role go to Joelinton? While he’s been brilliant in recent months, he could be put to better use further up the pitch due to Bruno’s presence in the middle.

First start of the season for Dwight Gayle vs Wolves

This feels incredibly unlikely, but there has been some debate from fans as to whether or not Dwight Gayle should be playing more.

The 32-year-old hasn’t started a single league game all season. He’s been limited to two substitute appearances since Howe took over, playing just eight minutes.

But with Wood struggling, perhaps Howe could throw a curveball and hand Gayle an opportunity. His last start in the Premier League was on April 11th 2021 – almost a year to the day.