Newcastle predicted lineup vs Aston Villa - Premier League
By Max Parsons
Newcastle host Aston Villa at St. James' Park on Sunday afternoon, looking for a third consecutive Premier League victory.
Eddie Howe's side's current run of form has seen them escape the relegation zone - for now. Draws against Manchester United and Watford have been followed by a 1-0 win over Leeds and, most recently, a 3-1 dispatching of Everton in their last two league games.
They'll do well to make it three on the bounce as they host Steven Gerrard's Villa, who sit 11th and have somewhat rediscovered their dynamism to avoid defeat in their last three league outings. Here's how the Magpies could line up.
Newcastle predicted lineup vs Aston Villa
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Martin Dubravka (GK) - Should be well rested after a very quiet evening in midweek.
Kieran Trippier (RB) - A minor doubt to feature after sustaining a knock late on against Everton but, following a fantastic display against the Toffees, will obviously start if fit.
Jamal Lascelles (CB) - Only a yellow card suspension has prevented him from starting any of his side's previous 15 Premier League games, so should skipper the side again here.
Fabian Schar (CB) - Wasn't too convincing last time out but will likely start once more with Howe's hand slightly forced in defence.
Dan Burn (LB) - Matt Targett is ineligible to face his parent club, so Burn could be given a debut for his boyhood club at left-back.
2. Midfielders
Bruno Guimaraes (CM) - Came on for the briefest of cameos in midweek but should be ready to make a full debut here - definitely worth watching.
Jonjo Shelvey (CM) - Has performed well in recent weeks and will surely start his fifth consecutive league game here.
Joelinton (CM) - Joe Willock will likely be the one to make way for Guimaraes on Sunday, so Joelinton should continue in midfield.
3. Forwards
Ryan Fraser (RW) - Has earned his place in the side following a brilliant showing against Everton last time out.
Chris Wood (ST) - Hasn't hit the ground running by any means - he's still yet to find the net for Newcastle, - but will lead the line in Callum Wilson's absence once again.
Allan Saint-Maximin (LW) - Some player; the Frenchman has been in dazzling form recently and is an absolute joy to watch - Didier Deschamps, please put him in the squad.