The Eddie Howe era will get underway when Newcastle United host newly-promoted Brentford at St James’ Park on Saturday in the Premier League.
The Magpies are the only team without a win in this Premier League season and currently lie 19th in the league table. They rescued a crucial point in a 1-1 draw with Brighton before the international break.
Howe, who replaced the sacked Steve Bruce, will hope to kickstart Newcastle’s campaign with all three points at home against Thomas Frank’s Brentford.
Newcastle United Team News
Eddie Howe has a clean bill of health at his disposal, with Paul Dummett and Ryan Fraser being the only doubts for the upcoming fixture. Fraser pulled out of the Scotland squad with a calf problem but returned to full training on Wednesday.
Goalkeeper
Steve Bruce and interim boss Graeme Jones used Freddie Woodman and Karl Darlow between the sticks this term but none of them performed consistently. With Howe coming in, Martin Dubravka could enjoy a new lease of life at the club. The Slovenian could make the Newcastle United lineup on Saturday.
Defence
Newcastle have the second-worst defensive record in the division and Howe will be desperate to improve that. In a flat back four, Jamaal Lascelles is a certain starter in central defence and should partner Ciaran Clark in the Newcastle United lineup.
Matt Ritchie and Javier Manquillo are expected to start as the full-backs as the Magpies look to keep their first clean sheet of the season against a struggling Brentford side.
Midfield
Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden have been reliable performers in the middle of the park for Newcastle in recent seasons. So, Howe is unlikely to disrupt their partnership and go with them in his first game in charge of the Toon Army.
With Ryan Fraser doubtful, Howe could start Allan Saint-Maximin in his original position at left wing. Saint-Maximin is the Magpies’ most dangerous player and can turn matches on his head. On the other flank, Miguel Almiron could receive a start and the Paraguayan will look to make an impression against the Bees.
Attack
Howe knows Callum Wilson in and out since their days together at Bournemouth and the Newcastle boss will hope the Englishman delivers the goods starting from the Brentford game. Up top with Wilson, Howe could go with Joelinton as the Brazilian’s physicality and hold-up play could cause problems to the Bees backline.
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