Newcastle United take on Preston North End for the second time this week on Saturday.
Having beaten them 6-0 on Tuesday night, Newcastle United take on Preston North End again this weekend, this time in the Championship.
Rafael Benitez’s side demolished Preston, but that does not mean the clash at Deepdale is a foregone conclusion, with Simon Grayson due to switch up his side having made nine changes for the midweek cup tie.
Newcastle will also no doubt make changes, but how will the Magpies line up against Preston?
Despite keeping a clean sheet on Tuesday, Matz Sels will likely drop back to the bench in place of Karl Darlow, who has been impressive since returning to the Newcastle side.
Vurnon Anita has started on the bench in the Magpies’ previous two games, but Benitez may bring the Dutchman back in at right back for the game against Preston, preferring him to DeAndre Yedlin.
Newcastle’s best centre-back pair is Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark, and that partnership should start at Deepdale, alongside Paul Dummett.
In the centre of midfield, Jonjo Shelvey should be paired with Isaac Hayden. Jack Colback had to be substituted on Tuesday after a head injury, and could miss out, meaning Hayden will be the one tasked with complimenting star man Shelvey. Width should be supplied by Matt Ritchie and Yoan Gouffran.
Away from home, Benitez has normally gone with Diame playing just behind a striker, normally Dwight Gayle, but Saturday’s game could see a change.
Aleksandar Mitrovic took his chance on Tuesday, scoring twice, while Gayle’s sensational form means he cannot be dropped. The weekend clash with Preston could be the first time Newcastle fans see this partnership from the off.
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