Predicted Newcastle United Lineup To Face Bournemouth In The Premier League

Newcastle, in my humble opinion, probably need no more than nine points to be safe, which is the equivalent of beating Southampton, Huddersfield and West Brom at home and losing all the rest. So a win here would be a huge bonus for the Toon.

The pressure to attack naturally falls on the home side which may yet play into Rafa Benitez’s hands, with the Spaniard most likely going with the following XI in a 4-4-1-1 formation:

Probable Newcastle XI

GK – Martin Dubravka

The new ‘keeper was exceptional in his debut game, against Man United, and is a shoe-in to start between the posts again here.

RB – DeAndre Yedlin

The American full-back at least gives his side some attacking impetus down the right and can play a part in what is a crucial match for both teams.

CB – Jamaal Lascelles

The skipper just gets better and better and for the life of me, I can’t understand any criticism he’s had. I’ll put it out there; he’s a better defender than anything Man United have got but only those boys seem have a chance of a place in the England team at the World Cup.

CB – Florian Lejeune

The Frenchman played his part in the big win against Jose Mourinho’s side and has eventually settled well in England.

LB – Paul Dummett

Newcastle have lost only twice in 9 Premier League games (both to Manchester City) since Dummy returned from injury. He’ll be vital at left-back once more.

RW – Matt Ritchie

Having been out of form for weeks, Ritchie improved and scored the winner against Man United last time and on that showing, he will no doubt be thrown in again.

CM – Mo Diame

What an improvement we’ve seen from the midfield man who weirdly now commands a place before either Shelvey or Merino.

CM – Jonjo Shelvey

The ex-Liverpool and Swansea man may just fight off Merino for the starting spot, having been excellent at St. James’ Park last time.

LW – Kenedy

The Brazilian has been a revelation since joining Newcastle on loan from Chelsea and is likely to be involved from the start again.

SS – Ayoze Perez

There’s an argument for playing the forward-thinking Mikel Merino in the No.10 spot but for now, Ayoze looks set to keep his place, based mostly on work rate.

ST – Islam Slimani

Slimani, on average, tends to contribute to a goal every single game and should he do so again here, he’ll be a hero immediately.