Crystal Palace will look to capitalise on their winning form when they host Newcastle United at Selhurst Park this Saturday. The Eagles picked up a narrow victory over Huddersfield Town last week and will be eager to keep up their momentum this weekend.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league so far this season. In fact, the Magpies are one of only four clubs yet to win a single game and could risk falling to the bottom of the table should they fail to accumulate any points this weekend.
Though Crystal Palace don’t have any latest injury worries to deal with, they could still miss out on the services of star striker Christian Benteke and Connor Wickham, both of whom are expected to return to full fitness quite soon.
Pape Souare is also out with a muscle injury along with defensive centre-half Scott Dann, who is suffering from a knee injury. However, both Souare and Benteke could be assessed before the game to check if they are fit to start.
Defence
Head coach Roy Hodgson is unlikely to alter his preferred defensive formation with Wayne Hennessey starting in goal. Aaron Wan-Bissaka, James Tomkins, Mamadou Sakho and Patrick van Aanholt are expected to form the four-man defence.
Wan-Bissaka has been by far the best defender for the Eagles this season, accumulating nearly 3 clearances and 2.5 interceptions whilst making 4 tackles per game. His presence, therefore, could be key as Crystal Palace look to remain solid against a struggling Newcastle side this weekend.
Midfield
Max Meyer is poised to make his first start for his new club this week after featuring as a substitute for the last few matches. His technical qualities coupled with his efficient passing could complement a more robust Luka Milivojevic in defensive midfield.
Hodgson is also likely to include Cheikhou Kouyate in midfield, thanks to his tackling prowess and physicality. His presence in midfield could also allow Meyer to maraud forward more freely, which, in turn, could boost Palace’s creative department.
Attack
Jordan Ayew could once again lead the line for the Eagles following the absence of Christian Benteke. The former Swansea star did register an assist in the last game but will be hoping to find the back of the net against Newcastle.
He will be partnered with the wide duo of Wilfried Zaha and Andros Townsend. Zaha is averaging over 2 shots per game whilst attempting 3.8 dribbles, the most by any other player in the team, so he will be a threat again.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
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