The Magpies head coach confirmed Freddie Woodman would start in between the sticks with Martin Dubravka injured and Karl Darlow recovering from Covid-19.
“Freddie will get his chance,” Bruce said. “He’s waited patiently. He’s played for the last two years
“It’s Freddie’s big opportunity. I’ve been very, very pleased with what I’ve seen over the last six weeks in particular and the reports we had from Swansea have always been very very positive.”
But what about the outfield players? Here, we predict the starting XI Bruce will name against the Hammers.
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. BURTON-UPON-TRENT, ENGLAND - JULY 30: Newcastle manager Steve Bruce looks on during the pre-season friendly between Burton Albion and Newcastle United at the Pirelli Stadium on July 30, 2021 in Burton-upon-Trent, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) Photo: Michael Regan

. GK: Freddie Woodman
Bruce has confirmed Woodman will make his Premier League debut against the Hammers with Martin Dubravka injured and Karl Darlow recovering from Covid-19. Photo: Ian MacNicol

9. CM: Sean Longstaff
Longstaff says it’s the best he’s felt since his breakthrough year, and his pre-season performances certainly offered plenty of promise. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall

10. ST: Callum Wilson
Similar to Saint-Maximin, United struggle to cope without Wilson. He is Newcastle’s goal scorer - and loves doing so against West Ham. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall

11. ST: Allan Saint-Maximin
Saint-Maximin picked up a knock in pre-season but featured in the final friendly against Norwich. If the Frenchman is fit, he plays. It’s as simple as that. Photo: Charlotte Tattersall