Newcastle predicted lineup vs Man City - Premier League
The gruelling assignments keep coming for Newcastle as they welcome league leaders Manchester City to St James' Park in the Premier League.
The Magpies very briefly flirted with what could have been a famous Anfield victory in midweek when Jonjo Shelvey put them ahead, but Liverpool turned the screw to leave Newcastle three points adrift of safety at the foot of the table.
Eddie Howe's side have conceded seven across their last two games and the former Bournemouth boss will be keen to shore up his defence ahead of a visit from the reigning champions.
Here's how he could line his side up.
Newcastle predicted lineup vs Man City
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Martin Dubravka (GK) - Howe has restored him to the side following Karl Darlow's loss of form.
Javier Manquillo (RB) - Struggles defensively at times but his energy on the right hand side allows Newcastle to get up the pitch.
Fabian Schar (CB) - Can often look Newcastle's best defender before he commits a rash error.
Jamaal Lascelles (CB) - Culpable for a few goals Newcastle have conceded in recent weeks and needs to improve his performances.
Matt Ritchie (LB) - Replaced the injured Jamal Lewis early in the first half in midweek.
2. Midfielders
Miguel Almiron (RM) - His pace on the counter-attack could be cruclal for Newcastle.
Jonjo Shelvey (CM) - It was eventually in vain, but his goal against Liverpool in midweek was one of pure quality.
Isaac Hayden (CM) - Should offer more defensive solidity against a Manchester City side that will pour players forward.
Ryan Fraser (LM) - Played under Howe at Bournemouth, where he played the best football of his career.
3. Forwards
Callum Wilson (ST) - Dropped to the bench at Anfield, perhaps with tougher and more winnable fixtures in mind.
Allan Saint-Maximin (ST) - Pure box office, and he will need to be at his best if Newcastle have any hope of staving off relegation.