Newcastle United will take on Burnley at home and will hope to put a torrid transfer window behind them. Having signed just Kenedy on loan from Chelsea, it’s safe to say that Rafa Benitez hasn’t had the window he wanted.
The recent transfer blow came in the form of Daniel Sturridge who joined West Brom on a loan deal. The Magpies were hoping to sign him but will have to look elsewhere. Benitez has managed to squeeze his resources and will be expected to do so once again in the coming months.
The club are coming off a defeat against Chelsea in the FA Cup and their form in the league isn’t the best either. They have managed just one win in their last five league games which came against Swansea. Having said that, Burnley are struggling as well. The Clarets have lost their last four in all competitions and at home, Newcastle will be confident of getting the three points.
Here’s how the Magpies could line up for the game…
Defence
Newcastle’s backline will have to deal to deal with a combination of strength and pace now that Burnley have signed Aaron Lennon.
We could see a back four of Paul Dummett, Ciaran Clark, Jamaal Lascelles and DeAndre Yedlin. The fullbacks were given a breather against Chelsea as Haidara and Manquillo started. Karl Darlow is expected to guard the goal.
Midfield
Mikel Merino and Jonjo Shelvey could start in front of the defence will the duo will be expected to get forward more often. Burnley will play on the break, so the midfield duo will have to attack to defence transition will have to spot on.
Ayoze Perez will add the creativity in front of the double pivot and play in the number 10 role. The 24-year old has mustered just 2 goals and 1 assist so far and would like to improve his numbers.
Attack
Matt Ritchie and Christian Atsu could play on the wings once again. The two will be expected to provide the service for Dwight Gayle who could start over Joselu and Aleksandar Mitrovic.
Benitez would have liked to have Mitrovic at his best but the Serb just returned to training and isn’t 100% match fit. His presence could have been crucial against the burly Burnley backline. Gayle will offer the movement in the box, though, and could free up space for the wingers to have a go at goal, so we’ll see how it goes!