EFL Championship leaders Newcastle United will go head to head against strugglers Bristol City on Saturday at the St. James’ Park. The Magpies sank Aston Villa earlier this week, winning by a comprehensive 2-0 scoreline and as a result, leapfrogged Brighton & Hove Albion to clinch the top spot in the Championship and would be looking to keep the momentum going with a win over Lee Johnson’s troops.
Manager Rafael Benitez will be without the services of star striker Dwight Gayle, who hobbled off with a hamstring injury very early in the game against Villa. Captain Jamaal Lascelles will be serving a one-match suspension after he picked up his fifth yellow against Aston Villa. Apart from these two, he would be able to use all his first-team personnel as Newcastle go about consolidating their position at the top of the table.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Darlow will be the man between the sticks for the Toons on Saturday. The 26-year old has kept 10 clean sheets in 23 appearances this term and has established himself as Benitez’s preferred choice in goal.
The former Tottenham man will continue to feature on the right-hand side of the defence, after another impressive display against Villa on Monday night.
The Newcastle captain has been as solid as they come this term and will continue to feature in the heart of the defence against Bristol City.
The Irish centre-half put in another excellent shift against his former team earlier this week and has been a constant member in the playing XI and we expect it to stay the same against Bristol City.
The left-back has been an ever-present in the Newcastle line-up this term, having played the most times for the Magpies and has been a dependable presence. He might once again start the proceedings at the weekend.
The English midfielder is Newcastle’s main man, who keeps them ticking from the middle of the park and don’t expect it to change come Saturday.
Colback has come into the side due to Isaac Hayden’s injury-enforced absence and has been doing well. He should once again feature from the go.
The summer arrival has become Newcastle’s MVP with his pace and power down the right-flank. Having already notched up 8 strikes this season, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him add to his tally on Saturday.
The Spaniard has been quite impressive for Newcastle this season. Having been left out of the starting XI against Villa, he should return to the fold against the Robins.
The Frenchman has been the preferred personnel ahead of Christian Atsu on the left-flank and we expect the same to continue on Saturday.
The Serb replaced the injured Gayle against Villa and is the most likely choice to lead the line against Bristol City ahead of Daryl Murphy.
Here’s how they may take the pitch:
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