Four players that can expect to start for Newcastle United next season

Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United with team mate Martin Dubravka. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
Jamaal Lascelles of Newcastle United with team mate Martin Dubravka. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images) /
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The takeover of Newcastle United is exciting for fans, but it is a stressful process for the players as many of them could lose their place in the starting lineup.

Knowing that Mike Ashley has one foot out the door is a unique feeling that sparks unmatched happiness as a Newcastle United fan, but do the players feel the same way? Only they can answer this question, but I think it is fair to assume that most players are more concerned than they are excited.

The reason for this is that several players are at risk of losing their place in the starting lineup or finding themselves on the transfer list if their services are no longer needed. That being said, here are four players that can expect to remain in the starting lineup next season.

Martin Dubravka

Martin Dubravka is proving to be one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. He has been playing at an elite level between the sticks for Newcastle United, and he finds himself among the top five in several statistical categories.

The Slovakian shot stopper attracted interest from Juventus and PSG last season, but he values his role with the Magpies and signed a six-year contract extension to stay on Tyneside. The club’s soon-to-be owners know they have a reliable keeper who truly is the last line of defense.

Jamaal Lascelles

Jamaal Lascelles is one of those young, talented players that Prince Mohammed bin Salman and his partners will want to build around. The 26-year-old defender is entering his prime years as a footballer and he has been in fine form this season.

The fact that both Rafa Benitez and Steve Bruce trusted Lascelles with the captain’s armband should indicate to the club’s new owners that he is a key player. Something the new owners will hope for, though, is for Lascelles to earn a call-up to the English national team as that would bring more recognition to Newcastle United at the international level, which would boost the club’s global brand.

Allan Saint-Maximin

Allan Saint-Maximin has been the club’s best summer signing and he has quickly become a fan favorite on Tyneside. The 23-year-old winger has stunned everyone around the Premier League with his confidence, pace and technical skills on the wing. Based on his performances this season, it is fair to say that Saint-Maximin is, without a doubt, one of the most dynamic players in the top flight.

His ability to orchestrate attacks out of thin air, and his ability to constantly create chances for himself and others around him has caused several problems for every team he has played against. His final output in terms of goals and assists has not been impressive this season, but with a better supporting cast he can further elevate his game. Keep in mind this is also his first season in the Premier League.

Miguel Almiron

Last, but not least, we have Miguel Almiron. It took the former MLS star a year to properly adapt to English football, but he is starting to find his rhythm at Newcastle United. Almiron is the second-most expensive signing in the club’s history, so he has been playing with tremendous pressure on his shoulders.

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Much like Saint-Maximin, Almiron is expected to score more goals and be the primary playmaker in the squad like he was with Atlanta United. The problem, however, is that he is being played out of position. If Almiron can make the shift to the number ten role behind the front line he is certainly capable of scoring goals in double figures.