Man Cityvs.Newcastle

While Jamaal Lascelles (knee) and Harvey Barnes (muscle) remain sidelined, Anthony Gordon (thigh), Joelinton (knee), Sven Botman (knee) and Dan Burn (groin) all missed the Magpies' 3-2 win over Birmingham City in the FA Cup last weekend.

It is understood that Gordon's issue is not a serious one and so the winger should be fit to play against Man City, but Joelinton, Botman and Burn will need to be assessed ahead of kickoff.

Nick Pope returned in goal against Birmingham and Eddie Howe must now decide whether to continue with his former number one or recall Martin Dubravka between the sticks.

Both Fabian Schar and Lewis Hall are set to return in defence and could be joined in the back four by Valentino Livramento and one of Botman or Burn if they are deemed fit to start. Emil Krafth is another defensive option at Howe's disposal.

Joe Willock scored twice last weekend and will be hoping to retain his place in midfield, but if Joelinton is fit to start, he could be recalled to link arms with Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali in the middle of the pitch.

Should Gordon pass a late fitness test, he will be expected to start on the left wing as Jacob Murphy operates on the opposite flank and star striker Alexander Isak, who has scored 17 Premier League goals this season, leads the line, while Callum Wilson will provide cover on the bench having now recovered from injury.

Newcastle United possible starting lineup: Dubravka; Livramento, Botman, Schar, Hall; Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton; Murphy, Isak, Gordon

Written by

Oliver Thomas