Newcastle take on Aston Villa in the Championship on Saturday evening.
In what is arguably one of the biggest games in recent Championship history, Newcastle head to Villa Park to take on their old foes Aston Villa.
Rafael Benitez’s side have started the season much more impressively, settling into Championship life and sitting in third place, while Roberto Di Matteo’s side have struggled to convert draws into wins, leaving them in 18th.
Regardless of form, this will be Newcastle’s toughest game of the season so far, but how will the Magpies line up?
The first change that Benitez will be forced to make will see DeAndre Yedlin make his first league start for Newcastle, following Vurnon Anita’s red card against Wolves, which saw him pick up a three game ban.
There could be a change at centre back, with Benitez more than happy to rotate, meaning Chancel Mbemba could sit out after a poor showing versus Wolves, meaning that former Villa player Ciaran Clark could come back into the fold and make his first appearance against the team he left in the summer.
Paul Dummett should remain at left back, albeit not for his impressive form. The 24-year-old was very disappointing last weekend, but a rocky debut from Achraf Lazaar in the cup competition could make Benitez think twice about handing him his league debut in such a big fixture for his side.
Newcastle United’s Jonjo Shelvey applauds fans after the game v QPR
Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden should continue in front of the back four, with the former’s string of good performances (Wolves excluded) guiding Newcastle towards the top of the Championship, including a midfield masterclass away to QPR.
Despite a poor league performance against Wolves, Mohamed Diame looked much more impressive in the cup clash three days later, and his presence should ensure he keeps his place, with Benitez likely to be looking to keep his team solid and compact at Villa Park.
Newcastle United’s Mohamed Diame receives a yellow card from Tim Robinson v Woves
Width will be supplied by Newcastle’s goalscorers in midweek, Yoan Gouffran and Matt Ritchie, who will be needed to to supply the ammunition for whoever starts up front in black and white.
Aleksandar Mitrovic could be given his chance to shine, with Ayoze Perez and Dwight Gayle faltering in the previous league game, although a decent cup showing from Daryl Murphy could bring him into contention.
The 22-year-old should get the nod, as he looks to get his season up and running, having been hindered early on by suspension.
Newcastle United’s Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates scoring their fifth goal v QPR
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