Predicted Newcastle United Line-up To Face Stoke City In The Premier League
Newcastle United will look to continue their good run of form in the Premier League, when they take on Stoke City in match-week 5, at the St. James’ Park, on Saturday.
The Magpies, after a poor start, have managed to get back on track, with two consecutive wins – a 3-0 triumph over West Ham United, followed by a 1-0 victory over Swansea City last weekend. This result saw them jump up to 10th place in the table and manager Rafael Benitez will be intent on getting a similar result against the Potters as well.
Team News
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow is a doubt due to an ankle injury, while versatile defender Chancel Mbemba is also set to miss out owing to a groin strain. Left-back Paul Dummett continues to remain absent due to the hamstring injury he picked up in the season opener.
Here’s how Newcastle could take the field against Mark Hughes’ Stoke this weekend:
Manager: Rafael Benitez
Formation: 4-4-1-1
Rob Eliott (GK)
Having kept two clean sheets in the last two games, Eliott will be hoping to add another one, against the Potters.
Javi Manquillo (RB)
The Spaniard is enjoying a strong start to the season and should continue at right-back for the Tyneside outfit.
Jamaal Lascelles (CB)
The captain was the hero for Newcastle against Swansea, scoring the only goal of the game and defending brilliantly. Will want to build on from that performance.
Ciaran Clark (CB)
The 27-year old has been a solid presence in the backline for the Magpies and should continue to feature from the get go.
Jesus Gamez (LB)
With Dummett and Mbemba both out, the Spaniard got the nod against Swansea last week and he justified his selection. Should start on Saturday.
Matt Ritchie (RM)
Has been Newcastle’s best player this season and their biggest threat in the attack. Definite starter against Stoke.
Mikel Merino (CM)
The Spaniard seems to have settled in nicely with his new club and is already looking like a very good signing. Should keep Jonjo Shelvey on the bench.
Isaac Hayden (CM)
The former Arsenal man has struck up a good partnership with Merino in the middle of the park. Another start beckons.
Christian Atsu (LM)
After having been left out of the last week’s encounter in favour of Jacob Murphy, the Ghanaian winger should return to the starting line-up.
Ayoze Perez (SS)
The Spaniard has shown glimpses of what he can do if he gets going. Should continue to feature in behind the main striker.
Joselu (ST)
Going up against his former club, the summer recruit will be extra motivated to prove a point. Expect him to cause a few problems.