Newcastle United players celebrate a goal. (Getty Images)
Newcastle host Premier League giants Manchester City on Saturday and would be hoping to do well against the champions.
The Magpies were on a decent run of form until they lost 2-0 against Aston Villa last Monday, thus pushing them one place lower to 14th in the league standings.
Despite a slow start to the season, Newcastle held themselves together and would be looking to make an impact on the game against City. They would be satisfied if they get a point from this high-octane fixture.
On the other hand, Manchester City have had mixed results in the past few weeks. After they lost to Liverpool before the international break, they narrowly won against Chelsea last weekend. They let themselves down against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League this mid-week.
Pep Guardiola’s men would be hoping to get the best result and close the gap on Leicester City, who are above them in the table. However, Newcastle must make sure they don’t give up without putting up a fight with their opponents.
Fabian Schar returned to the bench against Villa after being sidelined due to injury. Sean Longstaff has finished his suspension and would be available on Saturday.
Captain Jamaal Lascelles is ruled out due to a calf injury and Matt Richie will be undergoing rehabilitation after his second surgery.
The Slovakian is the first choice in goal for Steve Bruce and he would retain his spot. He would be hoping to keep a clean sheet on Saturday.
The American was at fault for the first goal the Magpies conceded against Aston Villa. But he could retain his spot as he has started in the last 4 games.
Fernandez could come back to his favoured position, making way for Fabian Schar in the centre.
His return from injury would be a boost for Steve Bruce. He would start in the absence of captain Jamaal Lascelles. He would be hoping to improve the defensive unit.
The Irishman played his quota of 90 minutes against Villa and had a decent outing. He would start for sure.
Although he started the season brightly, he was kept quiet last match. He would start for sure and would be looking to get over his poor performance.
The Paraguayan is yet to score his first goal the Magpies. He has been lively on the flanks and would be a sure pick against City.
The Englishman would be hoping to make an impact after returning from suspension. He is expected to start ahead of Jonjo Shelvey.
Steve Bruce has entrusted him to control their game on many occasions. Though he did well initially, he was not dominant in his recent performance. He would start for sure and should perform well.
A live wire on the field, Saint-Maximin has been their best performer till date. He is a crucial member of the squad and will retain his spot without any competition for this position.
The Brazilian hasn’t been convincing and does not look like a player worth £40m. He would start for sure but has to prove himself as a goalscorer.
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