Newcastle vs AC Milan: 3 players who MUST pick up form ahead of Champions League tie

Newcastle vs AC Milan is just around the corner as it kicks off on Wednesday evening at St James Park. For Eddie Howe, this is a must-win fixture since his side won't progress to the knockout stage of the competition without a win. Although, even if they do win this match, Howe is aware that the fate will come down to the result of the other match.

Newcastle vs AC Milan: 3 players who MUST pick up form ahead of Champions League tie

Here are 3 players who must pick up form ahead of Newcastle vs AC Milan...

#1 Martin Dubravka

The Slovak goalkeeper is being thrown into the deep end here as he's never played in the Champions League before. Given the Nick Pope injury, though, it will be Dubravka is called upon by Eddie Howe.

His recent display against Spurs in the Premier League simply wasn't good enough for a goalkeeper of his immense experience. However, we all know that Dubravka is a great professional, so we'll write off that display as a blip and back him to pull through in this match, as he's played in many big matches before.

#2 Kieran Trippier

Put it down to being overworked amid the injury crisis, but Kieran Trippier hasn't looked his usual sharp self in recent matches. I'm one of the biggest Trippier fans and think he's one of the best full-backs in the world, so this is the stage for him to return to his previous form. As the man of the match in the reverse fixture, Kieran Trippier should aim for another good Champions League display, not the performances he's put in recently.

#3 Miguel Almiron

Miguel Almiron is a fan of the Champions League, so hopefully we can see an improvement in this match as the Paraguayan international hasn't been at his best in recent matches. He was frustrating to watch against Spurs and I feel like his involvements could have been more productive. Still, he will start in this match and like I said, the Champions League is where he shines the most.

What's your score prediction for Newcastle vs AC Milan?