In the exciting world of Premier League football, Newcastle United is set to face Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux, and this match is more than just a routine game; it holds significant implications. With a five-day gap between matches, the team has enjoyed a rare moment of rest. However, as the fixture schedule intensifies, it's crucial for them to capitalize on this time wisely.
After an exhausting 120 minutes against Bournemouth in the FA Cup, followed by a disappointing defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg, manager Eddie Howe's primary task is to strike the right balance between allowing his squad enough rest while ensuring they maintain their competitive edge.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against PSV Eindhoven next Wednesday, Howe might consider rotating some players to keep them fresh. Yet, it’s important to remember that Wolves are steadily improving and cannot be underestimated, especially with valuable Premier League points on the line. This prompts the question: what lineup will Howe select for the journey to Molineux? Our team of writers weighed in with their predictions for the starting eleven.
Lee Ryder's Take:
Despite the setback against Manchester City, Newcastle should not dwell on it too heavily. They enter week 22 of the Premier League season still competing for a coveted top five position. I anticipate that Kieran Trippier may not be ready to start, so I would keep in-form Lewis Miley in the lineup. Lewis Hall has also shown great form, meaning that despite defensive concerns with Fabian Schar and Tino Livarmento unavailable, Newcastle can still field a robust defense.
The midfield trio should be revitalized, and given Jacob Murphy's injury, Anthony Elanga, who received praise from Eddie Howe recently, should take his place. Harvey Barnes and Nick Woltemade can serve as impactful substitutes, with Barnes eager to score again, having found the net in this fixture last season.
My Predicted XI: Pope, Miley, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Joelinton, Tonali, Guimaraes, Barnes, Elanga, Wissa.
Sean McCormick's Perspective:
With five days of recovery time since Tuesday's loss to Manchester City, Newcastle has the opportunity to regroup, which should result in Eddie Howe fielding his strongest available team. At right-back, I believe Lewis Miley should continue, while the rest of the defense picks itself. The midfield trio of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton should also start, along with Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon on the flanks.
As for the forward line, I would prefer to see Yoane Wissa start instead of Nick Woltemade. Although Wissa missed some chances recently, he consistently finds himself in scoring positions, making him a better fit for the intensity of the Premier League. I’d save Woltemade for the Champions League match against PSV.
My Predicted XI: Pope, Miley, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Guimaraes, Tonali, Joelinton, Barnes, Gordon, Wissa.
Ross Gregory's Opinion:
Harvey Barnes must start! It was shocking to see Newcastle's top scorer benched for such a critical match against City. Given his importance, I believe he should have played from the beginning, even if it meant substituting him later. Nonetheless, I believe Barnes, alongside Gordon and Wissa, should start to present a strong attacking threat away from home. With five days since their last match, there shouldn't be a pressing need to rotate players. I would include Tonali in midfield for the unfortunate Jacob Ramsey and go with our strongest lineup.
My Predicted XI: Pope, Miley, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Tonali, Guimaraes, Joelinton, Barnes, Gordon, Wissa.
Stuart Jamieson's Thoughts:
Newcastle cannot afford to underestimate this matchup, especially with the Champions League clash against PSV on the horizon. For me, the defensive lineup is straightforward, with Lewis Miley remaining at right-back alongside Malick Thiaw, Sven Botman, and Lewis Hall. To establish control in midfield, Sandro Tonali should return after a brief rest, although I might consider giving Bruno Guimaraes a break, allowing Jacob Ramsey to step in. Up front, both Gordon and Barnes deserve starting roles, leaving the decision of who leads the attack between Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, with Wissa slightly edging out for now due to his need for goals.
My Predicted XI: Pope, Miley, Thiaw, Botman, Hall, Tonali, Guimaraes, Ramsey, Barnes, Gordon, Wissa.
What’s Your Take?
If you were in Eddie Howe's position, how would you approach this lineup? Who would make your starting eleven, and who would you leave out? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
