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.
17. SUB: Joe Willock
The club may just be monitoring Willock’s fitness levels and may not gamble on starting him on Saturday. | Getty Images
18. SUB: Miguel Almiron
Murphy’s stunning form in pre-season may force Almiron onto the substitutes bench. | Getty Images
19. SUB: Will Osula
Osula enjoyed a very promising debut against Stade Brestois at the weekend and will be keen to get that first goal in the black and white after having one disallowed on Saturday. | Getty Images
20. SUB: Harvey Barnes
Although Gordon has had just 45 minutes of action during pre-season, he may get the nod to start on Saturday. Barnes will be keen to impress if he does see some action. | Getty Images