Liam Kennedy's Newcastle United starting XI for Aston Villa – with FOUR controversial players dropped from the Magpies' side
The Magpies take on Aston Villa at St James’ Park this evening and then face a trip to Premier League relegation rivals Brighton and Hove Albion next weekend.
But, in putting this team together, I’ve taken into consideration that I do not believe, in all likelihood, Steve Bruce and Graeme Jones will alter the system and approach they implemented in recent weeks, which has, to some degrees, seen a very slight upturn in performance.
So I’ve stuck with the 4-3-3 with the false nine and split strikers, despite calling for a change in that department earlier this week.
Still, I have decided to bin some players who have struggled for United of late – and one or two of them are controversial calls, which I do not believe Bruce will make.
1. Javier Manquillo
It's time. Even a half fit Manquillo would get in my side, due to the issues United have in filling the right-back role. The Spaniard is a solid enough defender and adds some pace on the right. Photo: Stu Forster
2. Jamaal Lascelles
Federico Fernandez is United's best defender and United need their best players playing but Bruce has an issue at centre-half in this regard. One half of the pairing is the skipper, in his best form of the season, and the other is probably the most in-form player in the starting XI. Photo: Pool
3. Ciaran Clark
As mentioned in the Lascelles bio, I think the Irishman is arguably United's most in-form player. One of the first names on the team sheet at the moment. Man of the match last time out against West Brom, albeit from slim pickings. Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
4. Paul Dummett
What he lacks in attacking threat and intent, he more than makes up with defensively. Is equipped with the knowledge of knowing where to be when the ball comes in the box, rarely leaving his man unmarked. Covers the central defenders well, also. Photo: GLYN KIRK