Here is how we predict Newcastle United will line-up for their Championship clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers this weekend.
Championship table-toppers Newcastle United find themselves in the enviable position of welcoming back a key quartet for Saturday evening’s encounter with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Having starred at the African Cup of Nations, winger Christian Atsu has returned to training and will be under consideration for the trip to Molineux. However, Atsu is more than likely a candidate for the substitutes bench rather than a starting spot.
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Others returning from absences include central defender Jamaal Lascelles, midfielder Isaac Hayden and goal-getter Dwight Gayle – with all three expected to be selected by Magpies boss Rafa Benitez.
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow should be selected to govern a back four of right back DeAndre Yedlin, left back Paul Dummett and the central defensive pairing of Ciaran Clark and captain Lascelles – meaning that, despite his encouraging display in the 1-0 victory over Derby last time out, Grant Hanley returns to the bench.
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Ahead of the back line, Benitez is expected to deploy his favoured double pivot in central midfield – with Jonjo Shelvey and Hayden taking the starting berths. The latter should return to the side after being withdrawn against Derby as his recent ankle struggles continued.
In the more offensive midfield positions, Benitez is likely to pick wingers Matt Ritchie and Yoan Gouffran to flank Mohamed Diame. The trio will be tasked with providing the service and support for returning top-scorer Gayle.
Here’s the predicted Newcastle United line-up in full:
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