After two wins, Newcastle have little need to change their team – but Rafa Benitez has the option to make a couple of key alterations.
Optimism has flooded back to Tyneside in recent days after Newcastle United’s brilliant victory against Swansea City.
With Rafa Benitez fit and well again, and back on the training ground, the Magpies will look to secure a third win on the bounce at home to Stoke City.
Newcastle could well call on the same line-up again, but they have options if Benitez wants to make some changes after naming a strong bench in Wales last week.
Rob Elliot, after a shaky start to the season, delivered a solid display against Swansea. He joked on Twitter afterwards that a “new hip and a new knee takes a while to get used to”. The Republic of Ireland man will continue in goal.
Newcastle have great depth in defence, with DeAndre Yedlin and Florian Lejeune among the substitutes on Sunday. While captain Jamaal Lascelles has done enough to keep his place, Javier Manquillo may well make way for the more dependable Yedlin.
In midfield, Mikel Merino continues to stand out and should keep his place ahead of Jonjo Shelvey. A difficult afternoon for Isaac Hayden should not count against him as his energy is key to the way Newcastle play.
Matt Ritchie delivered another assist at Swansea and remains a key figure, but Jacob Murphy failed to suitably impress and will surely see Christian Atsu return to the side.
Ayoze Perez and Joselu – facing his former club – will hope to recreate their outstanding performances against West Ham United in the last home game.
Here is how we expect Newcastle to line up against Stoke:
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