Newcastle United projected starting XI ahead of Thursday vs. Everton
By Cade Cracas
Newcastle United hopes to build upon its success against Tottenham Spurs this past weekend in a mid-week contest against Everton, this coming Thursday.
The Magpies, who have been red-hot recently, will look to utilize a solid starting lineup against the Blues. So, what will that lineup look like as they gear up for three contests over the course of seven days?
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has himself and the team in a peculiar position as they look to find a spot in the 2023-24 Champions League tournament. The team currently sits in third place, six points ahead of the Spurs in fifth place, giving them room to breathe moving forward.
However, it will be important for the Magpies to have a lineup that is ready and energized for Thursday’s contest.
Howe faces an interesting dilemma, as three games within seven days is sure to take a toll on the players. The trip to take on Everton’s Goodison Park will be followed by a homestand against Southampton and the league-leading Arsenal.
The Magpie defense will most likely see a new face on the back line as center-back Fabian Schar is doubtful to play due to a late fitness test. In his place will most likely be defender Jamaal Lascelles, who’s been weakly involved throughout the course of this season.
As of now, on April 26, it looks as though wingers Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin will still be inactive to compete due to lingering issues.
This past week it was also a concern that midfielder and star Bruno Guimaraes would be unable to play due to an ankle injury, but recent reports signal that Howe is comfortable with letting the 25-year-old play.
When it comes to the remaining options, Sean Longstaff will most likely start alongside Guimaraes and Willock in the midfield. For the forwarding group, Alexander Isak and Joelinton will be alongside Jacob Murphy or Anthony Gordon.
Murphy and Gordon are both on pace to prove their worth as the season comes to a close, with Howe having the ability to let either shine.
The contest between both sides is going to be a good one, so make sure to tune in tomorrow, April 27, at 7:45 p.m. as the Blues and Magpies go toe-to-toe.
Want your voice heard? Join the Newcastle Toons team!
But, what do you think? Who do you want to see in the starting XI vs. Everton?