Eddie Howe has made a trio of changes to the Newcastle United side from the one that lost to Everton last time out. He will be hoping his players can re-find the form that helped them away from the relegation zone against Tottenham as they look to get back to winning ways.
Javier Manquillo, Jonjo Shelvey and Allan Saint-Maximin are the three who have come into the starting XI in place of Emil Krafth, Bruno Guimaraes and Miguel Almiron respectively. Meanwhile, Martin Dubravka and Fabian Schar have been deemed fit to start despite both pulling out of their international camps last week.
The immediate reaction to the team news was dominated by the omission of Guimaraes, who was named as one of the nine substitutes. The likely reason for that is his late arrival from international duty as he only returned from South America a couple of days ago following a couple of very successful appearances with Brazil.
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His replacement, Shelvey, has been entrusted with the captain’s armband by Howe in the absence of Jamaal Lasecelles who is on the bench. Like Shelvey, Saint-Maximin will be desperate to turn in one of his vintage performances with his position in the team coming under threat prior to the recent break.
It was a team largely well-received by United supporters but Guimaraes’ lack of involvement was still questioned by some. Here is what a few fans had to say on Twitter in response to the team announcement.
@RichySouthern claimed: “Good team. Normal to leave Bruno on the bench after long flights. Big games coming too.”
@danny_kenworthy said: “Decent team but Bruno for Willock.”
@LaneHusband1 added: “Bruno not starting isn't too much of a surprise. considering he had to travel back from Bolivia. Strong team, options from the bench and a game we can more than win.”
@17jamesbeedie said: "Very happy with that line up. Thought Bruno G would be on the bench having been away with Brazil. Glad to see Jonjo Shelvey and ASM in from the start. Let’s go!"
@rob_bee claimed: “Had a feeling either Bruno would be rested or Willock would lose out. To be honest I'm not disappointed to see Shelvey back, give him credit since his improvement he’s a big reason the midfield is so much better. Think we missed him badly last match. Today will tell a lot."
@bradY9191 tweeted: “No way are people still questioning Eddie’s decisions man. That’s a quality starting lineup Bruno will come on and make an impact.”
