Predicted Newcastle lineup vs Nottingham Forest: FINALLY a strong Eddie Howe defence

Newcastle host Nottingham Forest on Boxing Day in the Premier League. For Newcastle and Eddie Howe, this feels like a must-win game given their poor form recently. As Howe would like to head into 2024 on a high, here is the predicted Newcastle lineup vs Nottingham Forest...

Predicted Newcastle lineup vs Nottingham Forest

GK - Martin Dubravka: Dubravka has played well in the absence of Nick Pope, but Newcastle fans would feel more comfortable with their number one between the sticks. Still, this could be one of Dubravka's last starts, depending on what happens in January.

RB - Kieran Trippier: Trips hasn't been in the best form lately, but we stick by him and understand this is just a few bad weeks in a world-class year. If anyone deserves to head into the new year with his head held high, it's Trippier.

CB - Sven Botman: It's great to have the Dutch defender back in the starting lineup and given the Jamaal Lascelles injury scare, he is bound to get a start in this match alongside his usual partner...

CB - Fabian Schar: One of the positives from the weekend is Fabian Schar having a speedy injury recovery. He will certainly be positive about starting in this match and I hope he remains injury free for the rest of the season.

LB - Dan Burn: BDB completes the strongest defence for Eddie Howe. As he seeks an invaluable three points, finally being able to start his full strength back four will be pivotal.

Continued on the next slide...