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The international break has taken centre stage recently with the return of the Premier League still a week away. Newcastle United have just ten games of the season left to play and kick their run-in off against one of their main contenders for European qualification when David Moyes brings his West Ham side to Tyneside.
The two clubs are separated by just four points with the Magpies knowing a win would ensure they are breathing down the necks of their opponents with a game in hand. However, they have recently been rocked by the news that Sven Botman has been ruled-out for between six and nine months with a knee injury.
Botman joins Joelinton, Callum Wilson and Nick Pope on the treatment table and unavailable for Saturday’s match whilst there are doubts over the fitness of Kieran Trippier, Tino Livramento and Harvey Barnes who all missed their FA Cup defeat to Man City. Eddie Howe, therefore, has a few dilemmas to consider before he names the side that will take to the field to face the Hammers.
Here, we take a look at the starting XI Howe could name for Newcastle United’s clash with West Ham. Do you agree with our predicted side? Follow us on our social media channels and let us know your thoughts there.
5. Dan Burn
Burn will likely continue at left-back despite a promising cameo from Lewis Hall at the Etihad Stadium. | Getty Images
6. Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle will be hoping that Guimaraes avoids injury during his time with Brazil and that he is fit enough to start against West Ham and play a big role in their ten remaining games of the season. | Getty Images
7. Sean Longstaff
Keeps his place in the starting line-up as he plays through a foot issue. | Getty Images
8. Joe Willock
Another two week break will give Willock the opportunity to further rest and recharge following his return from injury. A fit and firing Willock could be the difference maker for the Magpies in the season run-in. | Getty Images