Three days after their draw against Liverpool at St James’ Park, Newcastle United return to action at the Gtech Community Stadium when they face Brentford this afternoon. The Magpies performed well against Arne Slot’s side on Wednesday and will be keen to follow that up against a Bees side that have a brilliant home record.
Brentford have dropped just two points on their home turf this season, but lost 3-1 against Aston Villa in midweek. Brentford sit one place above Newcastle United in the Premier League table, but the two sides are separated by just goal difference.
Here, we take a look at the starting XI that Howe could name for his side’s clash with Brentford this afternoon:
1. Nick Pope - 5
Picked the ball out of his net twice but was finally called into action with an incredible save to tip Wissa's deflected shot off the post. Almost gifted Brentford a fifth in stoppage time. | Getty Images
2. Tino Livramento - 5
Showed plenty of energy down the wings but slipped late on for Brentford's fourth. | Getty Images
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3. Fabian Schar - 3
Gifted Brentford an attack after conceding possession cheaply trying to play the ball out. Handed too much space to the opposition as they attacked and failed to deal with a ball over the top for Brentford's third goal. Was out of position for the fourth goal too. A faulty showing from the experienced defender. | Getty Images
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4. Dan Burn - 5
Had a couple of shaky moments defensively. A failed clearance almost led to a Brentford chance. Cleared one off the line late on. | Getty Images