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After a weekend of FA Cup action, Newcastle United head to Villa Park to face Unai Emery’s Aston Villa in the Premier League (8:15pm kick-off). The Magpies defeated Villa comprehensively at St James’ Park back in August, dispatching their opponents 5-1 courtesy of goals from Alexander Isak, Callum Wilson, Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes.
This time around, however, Eddie Howe has far from a full complement of players to pick from and has to deal with fresh concerns surrounding Jamaal Lascelles and Miguel Almiron. Here, we take a look at the starting side Howe could name for his side’s trip to Villa Park:
5. LB: Dan Burn
Keeps his place in the side after a goal and clean sheet against Fulham on Saturday. | Getty Images
6. CM: Lewis Miley
Miley’s recent form has been rewarded by the club with a new deal. He has impressed in the starting team and with Howe’s midfield options still limited, is set to start at Villa Park. | Getty Images
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
The Brazilian will be walking a disciplinary tightrope at Villa Park with one more booking resulting in a two-match ban. Despite this, the Magpies will be relying on Guimaraes to be the glue in midfield. | Getty Images
8. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff’s smart finish on Saturday gave Newcastle the momentum in the capital. He will once again be relied on to provide the energy in the middle of the park. | AFP via Getty Images