Newcastle United will face Burnley at Turf Moor this weekend and they will need a few players to lead the way on the road.
Newcastle United are enjoying their football at the moment after claiming back-to-back wins over Sheffield United and Southampton. Burnley are experiencing a poor run of form after losing six of their last eight games, and the Clarets are currently on a three-game losing streak.
On paper, it looks like the Magpies are traveling to Turf Moor at the right time, but three points will not come easy against a side that is desperate for a positive result. Newcastle United have already played three games in nine days, so we can expect a few changes in the lineup this weekend. That being said, here are three players, assuming they start, who must perform at an elite level to help the team earn their third consecutive victory.
Jonjo Shelvey
The resurgence of Jonjo Shelvey has been a blessing for Newcastle United. The stand-in captain has found the back of the net in three consecutive games and his goals have been crucial in securing points for the Magpies. Burnley will most likely come out firing and set the tone of the match by dominating possession.
As a result, Shelvey must be quick to react when he recovers or receives the ball and orchestrate meaningful counter-attacks. Shelvey is on fire at the moment and he needs to continue playing at this level for the team to keep climbing the table.
Andy Carroll
Andy Carroll has been in top form for Newcastle United in recent weeks. Joelinton has been struggling and his early substitutions indicate that Carroll will get the nod against Burnley. Carroll will be expected to hold the ball up and get into open lanes inside the penalty area to get on the end of a few headers. Carroll has set up goals for Shelvey against Sheffield United and Southampton, and now he will hope that Shelvey can return the favor against a vulnerable Burnley side this weekend.
Christian Atsu
With Allan Saint-Maximin leaving Sunday’s match in crutches, and with Matt Ritchie still recovering from his ankle injury, Steve Bruce will turn to Christian Atsu on the wing opposite of Miguel Almiron. Atsu has played well this season when his number was called and he will be expected to be a dynamic threat out wide.
Atsu isn’t as technical as Saint-Maximin, but he has the pace to cause problems down the flank and he is a gifted dribbler who can cut inside to create a few chances. These attributes need to be on display against Burnley, especially when the Magpies press forward on a counter-attack.