Steve Bruce puts his fate in the hands of Joelinton vs. Man Utd

Newcastle United find themselves within just three points of a relegation position as we enter action today. But, they face a tall task (and long odds) as they try to secure an upset win vs. Manchester United. With less than an hour to kickoff, Steve Bruce has decided on his starting XI.

Looking for his second-ever victory over the club he captained as a player, Bruce stuck with 10/11 from his starting group vs. Chelsea. The one change he made was a big one.

With the club searching for a spark up top without Callum Wilson, Dwight Gayle got the start against the Blues. After an uninspired performance, the Newcastle boss has already pulled the plug on Gayle at striker.

Joelinton will get the nod to lead the line today at Old Trafford. With the shouts for “Bruce Out” getting louder by the day, could the Brazilian forward be the player to pull Newcastle out of this tailspin and save Bruce’s job?

The record-signing will be joined in the attack by Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin. The midfield trio will include Jonjo Shelvey, Isaac Hayden, and loanee Joe Willock.

Joelinton replaces Dwight Gayle in the Newcastle United starting XI vs. Man Utd.

While Federico Fernandez is close to a return, he isn’t back yet and the central defense will include Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark.

In addition to the decision up top, the choice at right-back is also an interesting one. Emil Krafth, replacing an injured Javier Manquillo, struggled mightily against Chelsea and he will be given another chance today rather than turning to Jacob Murphy. Jamal Lewis gets another start at left-back.

Newcastle supporters won’t be pleased to see Jeff Hendrick make his return to the squad today, starting on the bench. Gayle and Andy Carroll are available as substitutes to boost the attack.