A run of four top-flight games without a goal has brought some cause for concern for the Magpies – and it could be time for Bruce to reinvent the well.
Could supporters see a formation change? Will certain players be recalled? Scroll and click through the page as we predict United’s starting XI ahead of the Clarets’ visit to St James’s Park:
1. GK: Martin Dubravka
United have relied heavily on the Slovakian this season - but hopefully he won’t be called into action too often on against the Clarets. | Getty Images Photo: Jordan Mansfield
2. RB: DeAndre Yedlin
Valentino Lazaro’s red card makes room for either Yedlin or the returning Javier Manquillo. We think the USA international will get the nod. | Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol
3. CB: Federico Fernandez
The Argentine has played the most minutes out of any Newcastle defender this term and has proved effective in back four. | Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol
4. CB: Jamaal Lascelles
Bruce is unlikely to leave out his captain. In terms of United’s defenders, Lascelles and Fernandez are arguably more well-suited to a back four. | Getty Images Photo: Mark Runnacles