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These players must start for Newcastle vs. Huddersfield

By Durim Halimi

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United speaks to Yoshinori Muto of Newcastle United after the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 22: Rafael Benitez, Manager of Newcastle United speaks to Yoshinori Muto of Newcastle United after the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on September 22, 2018 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) /
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December is a busy month for Newcastle United and it will be important for Rafa Benitez to deploy a lineup that boasts quality and fresh legs.

Newcastle United will face Huddersfield Town at the Kirklees Stadium this weekend and the sole objective for the Magpies is to claim all three points on the road. This match will be far from entertaining, but it will be of major importance for both sides as Newcastle look to climb the table and Huddersfield aim to escape the relegation zone.

Newcastle should be extra motivated for this match after working so hard, but losing to Wolves in devastating fashion last weekend. In order for the Magpies to earn a positive result, Benitez must deploy a strong lineup with players who are fully fit during this busy month. With that being said, the following players should be in the starting lineup on Saturday.

Jonjo Shelvey

It is time for Jonjo Shelvey to reclaim his position in central midfield over Mohamed Diame. Ki Sung-yueng has been phenomenal when it comes to spreading the ball around and pushing players forward, but adding Shelvey alongside him over Diame would improve Newcastle’s offensive efficiency. Shelvey is a superior passer and he has the skills to be a game-changer, and that is exactly what Newcastle needs against inferior opponents.

Fabian Schar

Fabian Schar missed the match against Wolverhampton due to suspension and his absence was felt. The Swiss international defender plays with urgency for 90 minutes and his aggressive defending truly does disrupt the offensive flow of the opposition. Starting Schar against Huddersfield is a must as he can significantly help shut down a Huddersfield offense that has only scored ten goals this season.

Yoshinori Muto

Just when Yoshinori Muto started to adapt to English football he got injured and then he left to visit his newborn baby in Japan. The Japanese international striker has been out of the team for over a month, but Saturday presents a great opportunity for his return.

Ayoze Perez has been inconsistent for Newcastle and after suffering a gruesome nose injury against Wolves it only makes sense to give Muto a chance. Moreover, Newcastle’s supporters want to see how dangerous the Rondon-Muto duo can be up top.

Next. Comparing NUFC and Huddersfield since earning promotion. dark

Javier Manquillo

DeAndre Yedlin’s red card is a major blow for Newcastle as he will be out of action for multiple matches. His pace and passing abilities will be missed against Huddersfield, but Javier Manquillo would be a decent replacement against a lenient opponent, assuming Benitez plays with four defenders. Manquillo is a mediocre passer, but he boasts plenty of pace and is a good dribbler. He has sufficient skills to lead a counter attack and he can be a threat down the flank when more bodies move forward.