Eddie Howe absolutely must unleash ‘imposing’ Newcastle player against Wimbledon ahead of Anthony Gordon

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Eddie Howe needs to get the balance of his Newcastle United team right against Wimbledon.

Given the fact that Newcastle United are taking on a League Two side, it is a good chance for Eddie Howe to rotate his squad and give some of his fringe players a chance.

However, Howe is committed to ending Newcastle’s trophy drought, and must therefore put out a side that is definitely capable of beating Wimbledon and advancing to the next round of the Carabao Cup.

Howe has suggested that Miguel Almiron might start, while a late decision will be made regarding Sandro Tonali.

But Newcastle will be without Alexander Isak, who continues to be absent due to a broken toe.

Two Newcastle United strikers unavailable for Carabao Cup tie

And that absence, combined with Callum Wilson’s unavailability, is the reason why Howe must give Will Osula his first ever Newcastle United start on Tuesday night.

The 21-year-old has only made one appearance for the Magpies since his £10million arrival from Sheffield United. That came off the bench during Newcastle’s 3-1 defeat to Fulham.

But Howe has said he has high hopes for Osula, and he should be given the chance to start at St James’ Park against Wimbledon.

Will Osula should play up front for Newcastle against Wimbledon

With Newcastle set to potentially be without Isak and Wilson until after the international break, there is pressure on Anthony Gordon to remain fit. He started up front against Manchester City and did very well, and looks likely to continue in that role on Saturday evening when Newcastle face his former club Everton.

With that in mind, it might be considered a risk to start Gordon against Wimbledon in the cup. While Howe will want to put out a very strong team, there should be an acceptance that the Magpies can cope without the 23-year-old.

That is why Osula must be Newcastle’s striker for the Carabao Cup third round contest. While he is inexperienced, Howe will be able to surround him with seasoned stars, while he has been a consistent part of Newcastle’s first-team squad since arriving at St James’ Park.

With minutes limited so far, this is a great chance for Osula to show everyone at the club what he is capable of. The youngster has impressed in training, with Howe describing Osula as ‘imposing’, but now he must show it in a competitive setting.

Newcastle will not be taking Wimbledon lightly, but there should be real belief that Osula has what it takes to look the part against a League Two side. It could even be a great chance to score his first Newcastle goal, which would give him a huge confidence boost as Isak continues his recovery from a toe injury.

And with Gordon likely required to play up front against Everton, it makes sense to rest him on Tuesday night and give Osula a chance. Hopefully he seizes the moment if the chance does come his way.