Newcastle United will seek to return back to winning ways in the Premier League on Thursday evening against Everton at Goodison Park.
A recent upturn in form has seen Eddie Howe’s side not only move out of the relegation zone but also establish a considerable distance from the chasing pack. However, their three-game running came to an end on Sunday following a 1-0 away loss to Chelsea, due to a late Kai Havertz goal.
Eddie Howe and his boys, nonetheless, will be in an upbeat mood ahead of their trip to Everton, who have lost each of their last four Premier League games.
Newcastle United Team News
Joelinton has been struggling with a groin problem of late, which kept him out against Chelsea, although Eddie Howe confirmed after the game that the Brazilian was close. He could return to the squad on Thursday, along with Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock, after the midfield duo missed the last match through illness.
Meanwhile, Callum Wilson and Kieran Trippier are long-term absentees for Newcastle United.
Predicted Newcastle United Lineup vs Everton (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
Martin Dubravka was narrowly beaten by Kai Havertz’s strike on Sunday, which denied him a clean sheet at Stamford Bridge. He will be keen to shut the shop as quickly as possible against Everton.
Defence
Eddie Howe had switched to a back five to counter Chelsea’s 4-3-3 on Sunday, but the move didn’t give Newcastle the desired result. On Thursday, though, he should revert to a back four that will comprise Emil Krafth, Fabian Schar, Dan Burn and Matt Targett.
Predicted Newcastle United Lineup vs Everton
Jamaal Lascelles and Javier Manquillo will drop out to the bench at Goodison Park.
Midfield
The Newcastle boss will be hopeful of having all Jonjo Shelvey, Joe Willock and Joelinton back in time to face Everton. Shelvey and Willock would walk into Newcastle’s midfield, with Joelinton only expected to be fit to start from the bench.
Shelvey and Willock have played a crucial role in the Toon Army’s recent upturn in form, and their return from illness would be a big boost.
In the pair’s absence, Bruno Guimaraes was picked in midfield and he excelled against Chelsea, which was only his second Newcastle start. Following a strong performance, the Brazilian is in line for a third consecutive start.
Attack
Chris Wood will be again expected to lead the Newcastle attack. With his hold-up play and aerial ability, the New Zealand international could prove to be a real nuisance for the Everton defenders.
Allan Saint-Maximin could get the nod ahead of Jacob Murphy on the left flank, and the Frenchman along with Miguel Almiron will look to create openings for Wood and cause problems for the home side.
