Eddie Howe has a few players out for Saturday’s non-televised kickoff between Newcastle United and Manchester City at the Etihad at 3pm.
Along with Harvey Barnes, Joelinton and Sven Botman are expected to miss the game, but Anthony Gordon and Dan Burn should be healthy enough to play.
Eddie Howe changed the lineup for the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final matchup against Arsenal, and we anticipate that he will use a similar strategy against Manchester City.
Though it’s partially because to the lack of Thanos in the middle, we believe Howe would use this formation when against supposedly tough competition.
Nick Pope was the goalie for Martin Dubravka against Birmingham City over the weekend, but that weak footwork sent us chills all over again. Return MDubz!
Protectors
We are supporting a start for Kieran Trippier because the former England player has been excellent when called upon recently and there is a broad sense that Tino Livramento has lost his temper a little.
Emil Krafth: We believe that three centerbacks will be the best option for this one, but since Sven Botman is hurt, we anticipate seeing the reliable Swede in the middle.
Fabian Schar: You can always rely on Fabian Schar, even though the back three choose themselves based on player availability.
Dan Burn: If he doesn’t start this one after passing his fitness test, the entire lineup collapses.
These days, Lewis Hall is most likely the second name on the teamsheet after Alexander Isak.
We anticipate that Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes, the only midfielder beside him, will alternate between various roles to keep Man City off balance.
Bruno Guimaraes (c): As previously stated. Unless Howe uses the same man-marking strategy that he used against Arsenal, of course.
The Forwards
Jacob Murphy: At this moment, the in-form winger is essentially undroppable. However, he would be if he weren’t in form as well, considering the paucity of alternatives.
Alexander Isak – Will it be Isak or Erling Haaland who wins the battle of the strikers?
Anthony Gordon – Always a problem for any opposition.
Although Eddie Howe won’t have many game-changing options on the bench this time, there are still a few players who can be counted on to provide new energy and keep things going in the right direction. We’re confident that Callum Wilson will be eager to jump on and do some damage.
In fact, Will Osula might do some harm if he replaces Jacob Murphy in the end. For weary legs, his pace and tenacity might be a major annoyance.
