Graeme Jones has been in interim charge of Newcastle for their last two games, picking a 5-3-2 formation that yielded a draw against Crystal Palace but then suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to Chelsea.
Newcastle head to The Amex Stadium on Saturday still in search of their first win of the season, but they could have a new manager in the hot seat.
Former Bournemouth manager Howe is now looking increasingly likely to become Newcastle United’s new manager and his first task could be to oversee Newcastle’s trip to Brighton on Saturday, before having two weeks over the international break to work with his new squad in preparation for their home game against Brentford on November 20.
Here, we take a look at how Newcastle United could line up on Saturday, using Howe’s favoured 4-4-2/4-4-1-1 formation:
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5. LB: Matt Ritchie
Ritchie is the only ever-present in the Newcastle squad this season having not missed a single minute of Premier League action. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images) Photo: Naomi Baker
6. RM: Ryan Fraser
Albeit playing in centre-midfield, Fraser has started the last two games and is clearly one of Graeme Jones’ most trusted players. He also knows exactly what is expected of him in an Eddie Howe side. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images) Photo: Ian MacNicol
7. CM: Joe Willock
Willock’s struggles with injuries has seen him feature on the bench recently, however, Newcastle have badly missed his legs and drive in the middle of the pitch. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster
8. CM: Isaac Hayden
By including Hayden in centre-midfield, Willock could be allowed to flourish. Brighton have a strong midfield and Hayden will have to be on top form in order to counter their great strengths, particularly Adam Lallana and Yves Bissouma. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Regan