Eddie Howe has named an unchanged Newcastle side for the third match running as he hopes to claim a third successive Premier League win. Victory this afternoon would see The Magpies jump above Man United in the Premier League table and into the Champions League places with 11 games remaining.
While there were no changes to the starting line-up, there were some welcome returns on the bench with Anthony Gordon back from an ankle injury and Joelinton available once again following suspension.
Nick Pope and Sven Botman also appear to have shaken off issues during the international break to remain in Howe’s starting XI.
NUFC XI: Pope; Trippier, Schar, Botman, Burn; Guimaraes, Longstaff, Willock; Murphy, Saint-Maximin, Isak
Subs: Dubravka, Lascelles, Gordon, Wilson, Ritchie, Joelinton, Anderson, Targett, Manquillo
But there are still some players who are not part of the squad this afternoon - here’s why...
5. Harrison Ashby - tactical
Yet to be involved in a matchday squad since his deadline day arrival. Was nursing a hamstring injury but returned to full training last month. Photo: PAUL ELLIS
6. Loris Karius - tactical
Remains out of the squad with Martin Dubravka on the bench as back-up goalkeeper. Photo: ADRIAN DENNIS
7. Mark Gillespie - tactical
Newcastle’s fourth choice goalkeeper doesn’t make the squad today. Photo: Pool
8. Emil Krafth - ACL
Picked up a serious knee injury in the second round of the Carabao Cup back in August. | Getty Images