Two lineup changes Bruce should make against Chelsea

Steve Bruce must decide whether he will stick with the lineup that won against Manchester United or make some changes against Chelsea this weekend.

Newcastle United and Chelsea are both seeking to build on their momentum on Saturday. Steve Bruce’s side are coming off a hard-earned victory over Manchester United and Frank Lampard’s squad is looking to claim their third straight victory in league play. Chelsea have won their last four games across all competitions and they have scored an impressive six goals in their most recent Premier League victories against Brighton and Southampton.

Newcastle United managed to expose a vulnerable Manchester United team that was not at full strength due to injuries, but can the same starting lineup earn a positive result against an in-form Chelsea side in London? For the most part, yes, but I think at least two changes need to be made for Saturday’s game.

Changes to the Lineup

The 3-4-3 formation that Bruce deployed against Manchester United was spot on as Newcastle United looked dangerous offensively and they simultaneously provided sufficient support for the back three. In terms of his player selection, Bruce should make the following changes for Saturday’s game:

Christian Atsu in place of Miguel Almiron
Paul Dummett in place of Ciaran Clark

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 11: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal passes he ball under pressure from Paul Dummett of Newcastle United during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on August 11, 2019 in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /

Miguel Almiron has failed to meet expectations on Tyneside. He currently has more yellow cards for diving than he does goals or assists. Almiron put in a decent shift against Manchester United, but his indecisiveness in front of goal led to two wasted opportunities in that clash. Christian Atsu, on the other hand, is enjoying a good run of form and has been a joy to watch.

The Ghanaian midfielder plays with urgency on both ends of the pitch, has been the most successful midfielder in the squad in terms of picking out Joelinton in the penalty area, and he will be motivated to play against his former team.

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Ciaran Clark made his first appearance for the club this season against Manchester United and he did a good job alongside Jamaal Lascelles and Fabian Schar. The problem, however, is that Chelsea’s youngsters play with blistering pace and Clark simply cannot keep up with them. I honestly think that Paul Dummett will have his hands full, too, but his pace and athleticism makes him a better option for starting against Chelsea.