Newcastle United have predictably started the season in slow fashion, losing narrowly to Chelsea and Tottenham, and grinding out a point against Cardiff City where they should have got three. Rafa Benitez would be keen to rotate his squad for this League Cup tie against Nottingham Forest with an eye for the weekend game against champions Manchester City.
The problem with the Spaniard is that he doesn’t have a wide squad to really make wholesale changes. In spite of that, some of the first-choice players will probably get a rest against Forest.
Florian Lejeune is a long-term absentee for Newcastle, while Jonjo Shelvey will be out for two weeks due to a thigh injury. Captain Jamaal Lascelles is expected to be back in the fray for this game.
Dubravka is Newcastle’s number one now, however, he might get a rest for this game. Darlow may get a chance to impress the manager.
With Javier Manquillo highly doubtful for this game, Yedlin has to continue operating at right-back.
Made his debut at the weekend, and may continue to play this game, as Jamaal Lascelles’ situation is still unclear.
Ciaran Clark has played all games at centre-back and might get a rest for this fixture. Swiss international Schar should get his chance to partner Fernandez.
Newcastle are short of options at left-back, so Dummet may have to continue playing here.
The Brazilian couldn’t take part against Chelsea. Expect him to start ahead of Jacob Murphy in this game.
With Shelvey out, Diame has to play in the midfield. Benitez might not play the academy youngsters so early in the season.
Made his debut against Chelsea and expect him to be fresh enough to start this game as well.
With Matt Ritchie deserving a game off after all the hard work he has put in so far, Atsu would be an ideal replacement.
Was benched against Chelsea but should be back in the line-up as Newcastle revert to the back-four system.
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