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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.
9. Jacob Murphy
Murphy started at right back against Manchester City but will likely feature in his more natural position against West Ham. Miguel Almiron’s international commitments with Paraguay, although he had no game to play, may give Murphy the edge in Howe’s thinking. | Getty Images
10. Alexander Isak
Isak netted a brace in the reverse fixture at the London Stadium and will be keen to add to his haul of 16 goals in all competitions for Newcastle this season. | Getty Images
11. Anthony Gordon
Gordon should come back to Tyneside full of confidence after his first call-up to England’s senior squad. He will be keen to impress United’s remaining games to force himself into Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad. | AFP via Getty Images