Predicted Newcastle Line-Up To Face West Ham United In The Premier League
Newcastle United, desperate now for a win, face a tough trip to West Ham United on Saturday sans Jonjo Shelvey following his silly red card in the defeat to Everton, though other than that Rafa Benitez has his band of usual suspects to choose from.
Rafa’s side did alright at Arsenal last time but ultimately for no reward, so the boss may well decide to employ a very similar side and system here at the London Stadium with Elliot in goal and a 4-4-2 formation with Dwight Gayle perhaps coming in for Ayoze Perez this time.
Matt Ritchie is another who is likely to be recalled, with Jacob Murphy perhaps arriving from the bench, though much to the chagrin of Newcastle’s travelling fans Joselu may once again start up top.
Formation: 4-4-2
Manager: Rafael Benitez
GK – Rob Elliot
The Ireland international lost his place recently to Karl Darlow. However, the Toon’s struggles in this position continue and Elliot looks like the best option for now.
RB – DeAndre Yedlin
The American international will at least get up and down the right flank and join in the attacks, working well in the past with Ritchie, who may return.
CB – Florian Lejeune
The Frenchman is finally settling in, having got a good run in the side, and should play alongside the skipper once again.
CB – Jamaal Lascelles
The skipper should have no trouble getting into this XI and will hope to lead his team to a much-needed away win.
LB – Javier Manquillo
A new left-back is needed and hopefully, Paul Dummett will be fit to start in this role, though I’m not sure how likely that is just yet.
RW – Matt Ritchie
The Scottish international possesses real quality and will supply expert balls from set-pieces especially.
CM – Isaac Hayden
Newcastle’s best defensive midfield option and the former Arsenal man should start alongside Merino.
CM – Mikel Merino
A classy player and one who is improving; Merino is the reason Newcastle will not miss Shelvey despite his big reputation.
LW – Christian Atsu
Murphy will push for another start in this role. However, Atsu does supply quality balls and so in playing 4-4-2, Rafa is likely to go with the ex-Chelsea man.
ST – Joselu
Neat and tidy, but hugely ineffective in front of goal unless something is laid on a plate for him, though he seems to be a favourite choice of Rafa’s.
ST – Dwight Gayle
Toon fans will be hoping that last season’s top scorer comes back in and I wouldn’t bet against him scoring in this one.