Steve Bruce is definitely one for change at Newcastle United, unfortunately the result more often that not remains the same.
Leeds United head to St James’s Park this evening with the Magpies in a run of no win in ten in all competitions, and no win in the Premier League in eight. Goals, too, have proven very hard to come by with United registering just one goal in open play since the last time these two met at Elland Road on December 16.
Injury and illness remains an issue on Tyneside, but who can Bruce call upon to kick-start Newcastle United’s 2021 into life? Our Magpies writer Liam Kennedy takes a look at the team he would pick this evening – and he’s made FIVE huge selection decisions, as well as switching the formation back to 4-4-2.
9. Ryan Fraser
Probably not quite fit enough to get a full game but get him back in and give him a chance to prove himself for an hour, then Allan Saint-Maximin can have a run later on. The Scotland international has a lot to do to convince the United faithful of his worth. Photo: Clive Brunskill
10. Andy Carroll
Didn't work for him last time out, but I'd select him again, this time with the potential width of Murphy and Fraser to pick him out. Dwight Gayle has to be knocking on the door, mind. Photo: Pool
11. Callum Wilson
Out-of-sorts at the moment, looks half the player he did in the first quarter of the season. A lot of it is not his fault. Needs service. Photo: Clive Mason