Eddie Howe might have a selection dilemma on his hands when Newcastle United face Liverpool this weekend.
The Newcastle boss was able to name an unchanged side to face Manchester City, but there is a chance that might not be possible on Sunday.
That is because Joelinton was forced off with an injury last time out. He appeared to hurt himself whilst making a challenge on Phil Foden. Shortly afterwards, he was replaced by Sean Longstaff.
It is currently unclear if the Brazilian will be fit to face Liverpool at St James’ Park this weekend. Hopefully he will, as he is a key player and someone who is perfect to face a side like the Reds.
However, Howe will be making plans for the possibility of being without Joelinton, and they should include Elliot Anderson being given his first start of the season.
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Anderson should start for Newcastle against Liverpool if Joelinton is injured
While Longstaff replaced Joelinton at the Etihad, it should be Anderson who takes the 27-year-old’s position against Liverpool.
The local lad has featured off the bench in both of our games so far, and looked lively on Saturday despite not being able to inspire a comeback.
Anderson was our star in pre-season, shining out in America during the Premier League Summer Series. Kieran Trippier described his performances as ‘brilliant‘, while Howe has stated that the 20-year-old is going to have a much bigger role this season.
That needs to start on Sunday if Joelinton is not fit.
The young midfielder must be full of confidence after the summer, and that is something that Newcastle need to capitalise on.
On top of that, there will be a desire for Anderson to get some sort of redemption. He made his first Premier League start in the same fixture last season, but it was ended early due to Nick Pope’s red card.
If Joelinton is not available, Longstaff is the safe option to start. But Howe should take a risk and give Anderson the chance he needs. It is one that he most certainly deserves for his pre-season performances.