Newcastle United are going for three away league wins in a row, a feat that in this case looks about as likely as Donald Trump popping down to Cancun for the weekend. Naturally, there’ll be no new talent in the Newcastle squad either, so the long-suffering Rafael Benitez will make do with his usual band of men who are admirable and honest but limited in quality.
Despite criticism from some fans, Benitez is likely to repeat the uber-defensive tactics employed in the home game against the Cityzens a few weeks back which very nearly earned them a point ultimately. I for one wouldn’t blame him.
We could see a 5-4-1 formation at the Etihad with the following XI lining up:
In ahead of Rob Elliot at the moment, though how long for we have no idea.
Newcastle’s top defender and captain. He takes everything personally and will demand a big performance from his back four or five.
Playing well alongside the skipper lately in a flat back four so would be unlucky to miss out should the shape change.
The solid and reliable Dummett is rather underrated and his presence in the side could be crucial for this game.
I hate this shape personally, but it’s one which suits players like Yedlin. A right-back who loves to get forward, he’s likely to be handed this role.
No world beater, but has basic defensive skills which may be very valuable on the day.
Jacob Murphy may offer some late pace but Ritchie’s dead ball skills should tip the starting berth in his favour.
Mo Diame may be given the jersey but Hayden has better defensive qualities and hopefully gets the nod.
Jonjo Shelvey refused the manager’s handshake last time and while in public all is forgiven between the two, he has been in the team to the chagrin of plenty of fans of late and his time could be up now. Merino has quality and deserves more starts.
At least takes his man on down the left and should be allowed to express himself on the big stage here.
Quantity, not quality is the Newcastle way at present and so it’s either Perez, Gayle or Joselu for this role with the Spaniard in better form of late.
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