Predicted Newcastle side to face Fulham: Trio benched

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Here is how we predict Newcastle United and Fulham will line-up ahead of their Championship encounter this weekend.

To be played on Saturday 11th March 2017 at 15:00. Venue: St. James’ Park, Newcastle

Odds: Newcastle 8/11, Draw 13/5, Fulham 7/2

Championship table-toppers Newcastle United host seventh placed Fulham in a game that is far from straightforward.

Despite seemingly heading for a Premier League return at the first time of asking, Newcastle have seen their lead at the top of the second-tier cut to three points, following their 0-0 draw with Reading in midweek – whereas Fulham are currently experiencing an encouraging run of form, with just one defeat from their previous eight league matches.

Further, the Cottagers, who defeated Newcastle on the opening day of the season, have recent history firmly in their favour. Indeed, Fulham have won seven of the past 11 meetings between the sides, including four victories in the most recent six meetings.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash, Magpies boss Rafa Benitez looks set to move three of his starters from the Reading game to a role on the substitutes bench – namely forward Daryl Murphy, winger Yoan Gouffran and midfielder Jack Colback.

Goal-getter Dwight Gayle is fully expected to be given the centre forward’s role, with Christian Atsu replacing Gouffran and the more adventurous Mohamed Diame starting ahead of Colback – in what would appear to be a very forward thinking line-up.

Newcastle’s defensive unit may well remain unchanged, as full back Jesus Gamez looks set to retain his place ahead of Vernon Anita following the 0-0 result against Reading – meaning that Newcastle are still yet to concede a goal with Gamez on the pitch.

Opponents Fulham, meanwhile, will consider drafting highly rated left back Ryan Sessegnon into the starting XI, after the 16-year-old played the final half-an-hour of the comeback draw against Leeds on Tuesday evening.

Here is the predicted line-up for both Newcastle United and Fulham, in full: