Three changes to the Newcastle United side after victory over Brighton as Eddie Howe prepares for busy week - predicted XI for Southampton clash
Eddie Howe has a few selection headaches as Newcastle face a tough upcoming Premier League schedule.
United will play three away games in seven days with trips to Southampton, Chelsea and Everton to come before a sixteen day break.
Goals from Ryan Fraser and Fabian Schar were enough to secure all three points against Brighton on Saturday - a result that extended their unbeaten run to eight games and put the Magpies seven points above the relegation zone.
Newcastle’s good form means that despite having players like Allan Saint-Maximin, Bruno Guimaraes and captain Jamaal Lascelles on the bench, there is little need for Howe to make wholesale changes to his starting side.
So what might Newcastle’s team look like on Thursday evening on the south coast? Here, we take a look at the side Howe could select to start at St Mary’s in our predicted line-up:
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Newcastle’s good form means that despite having players like Allan Saint-Maximin, Bruno Guimaraes and captain Jamaal Lascelles on the bench, there is little need for Howe to make wholesale changes to his starting side.
5. LB: Matt Targett
After arriving from Villa, Target has put in solid performance after solid performance and has been one of the most consistent performers in the black and white, no mean feat considering the huge improvements across the team. Photo: Stu Forster
6. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Eddie Howe has urged caution regarding calls for Guimaraes to make his first start for the Magpies, however, with games coming thick and fast, it is very possible that the Brazilian could make his first start for the club away at Southampton. Photo: Ian MacNicol
7. CM: Jonjo Shelvey
Post-match, Shelvey revealed his disappointment in his performance against Brighton. This came as a surprise to many and possibly highlights how much standards have been raised under Howe. Photo: Ian MacNicol
8. CM: Joelinton
Joelinton is almost undroppable at this point and his effort and work rate will be needed against a high-intensity pressing Southampton outfit. Photo: Stu Forster