Liam Kennedy's Newcastle United XI for Crystal Palace – with SHOCK selection and system switches
With all that in mind, who should the manager select for the trip to Crystal Palace this evening? Our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy picks his starting XI, and makes a system switch away from the recent flirtation with three at the back.
Here’s his one to 11, in a 4-2-3-1 system...
1. Goalkeeper: Karl Darlow
The time will come when a decision must be made between Darlow and Martin Dubravka, but for now the former Nottingham Forest man holds the shirt - and deservedly so! Photo: LEE SMITH
2. Right-back: Javier Manquillo
The defender was recalled against Chelsea and did little to make a case to be dropped. Plays on the right, for me, in a back four. With a five, Jacob Murphy would likely be in there. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
3. Centre-back: Federico Fernandez
We saw the armband rejection last week but don't let that cloud your views on the Argentine. United's best of the bunch at the back, consistently. Photo: Alex Pantling
4. Centre-back: Ciaran Clark
Another reliable defender who does the basics very well. Starts ahead of Fabian Schar due to his superior defensive work. Photo: Alex Pantling