It sounds like the Magpies boss is considering changes this week ahead of the visit of last season’s Premier League champions Manchester City. But what changes could he make?
Here our NUFC writer Liam Kennedy picks his Newcastle starting XI for the weekend – and it’s fair to say there’s a few surprises in his selections.
FORMATION: 3-5-2
5. DeAndre Yedlin - Right wing-back
Had a shocker at Villa Park but that's nothing new, he's had games like that in the past and come back strong. Hit and miss defensively but a real threat with his pace going forward. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill
6. Isaac Hayden - Centre midfield
In a game where high energy is needed, with and without the ball Hayden ticks the most boxes in United's midfield group. | Getty Images Photo: Nathan Stirk
7. Sean Longstaff - Centre midfield
Three games out with a ban, as well as a poor (by his standards) start to the season but he still walks straight back in. | Getty Images Photo: Mark Runnacles
8. Matty Longstaff - Central midfield
It might be too much, too soon for the youngster but I get the feeling this game is made for him. Alongside his brother in the middle, he will doing plenty of running, chasing and hassling. Gets in ahead of Miguel Almiron as an extra body in midfield. | Getty Images Photo: Ian MacNicol