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Newcastle have won back-to-back opening day games against Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa and will look to make that a trifecta when they host Southampton on Saturday 17 August (3pm kick-off). The opening day of the season is always a hotly anticipated fixture as crowds flock to see their team back in action in hope of catching a glimpse of any new signings.
Eddie Howe could hand debuts to Lloyd Kelly and Will Osula against Southampton, whilst the Magpies will be hoping to have a deal for Marc Guehi signed and sealed before Russell Martin’s side come to the north east. With a pre-season behind them, there will be a whole host of players pushing for a start and some big names could find themselves having to settle for a place on the bench.
Here, we take a look at the starting XI that Howe could name for his side’s Premier League opener against Southampton. Would you like to see this team line up against the Saints? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there.
9. Jacob Murphy
Murphy has starred in pre-season and it would be harsh to see him dropped from the starting XI for the visit of Southampton. | Getty Images
10. Alexander Isak
Isak will be the one of, if not the first, name on Howe’s team sheet. The Swedish international was the third-highest scorer in the Premier League last season and will be keen to get his campaign off to a bang against the Saints. | Getty Images
11. Anthony Gordon
Gordon has just half a pre-season game under his belt when the campaign gets underway, but his fitness and performance levels mean it would be a surprise to see him not named in the starting team. | Getty Images
12. SUB: Odysseas Vlachodimos
The former Nottingham Forest man may have to settle for acting as deputy to Pope this season. | Getty Images